Banihal INC candidate makes ‘unauthorized’ use of cable network for publicity

  DEO takes cognizance issues ban orders

P S BALI

Jammu, Nov 11: Taking cognizance of the continuous ‘breach’ of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by a local ‘unauthorized’ cable operator in Banihal, by giving nonstop coverage to Indian National Congress (INC) candidate, District Election Officer (DEO) Ramban,  Farooq Shah Bukhari today banned the service provider for giving selective publicity.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, DEO Ramban, Farooq Shah Bukhari said that following the frequent complaints from the other candidates, they banned Khan Digital Vision (KDV) and Friends networks, local cable providers at Banihal.

“Candidates from other political parties complained that the local cable network projects only INC candidate, Vikar Rasool Wani and keep repeating his rallies over and over again, said DEO, adding that cable network was running without prior advertisement certification from Media Certification & Monitoring Committee (MCMC).

He said, “Time and again, Returning Officer (RO), Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) and District Election Officer (DEO) issued verbal warrants to the cable operators, asking them to desist broadcasting single party, but service provider did not comply with the orders,” DEO added that after election observer intervened and mailed DEO regarding the matter, the action was taken.

He asserted that the cable network was banned for telecasting election rallies and activities of INC candidate without conforming to the various provisions of law and even when the Model Code of Conduct is in force in the district.

When asked about action against INC candidate for using cable network for publicity, DEO said that they do not have proper evidence to prove that INC candidate has used cable network.

“If we ask INC candidate, Vikar Rasool, who is also sitting MLA for using local cable, he will not admit. So we decided to ban the operator till polls,” he said adding that cable service remains banned under the violation of the Cable Television Network Regulations Act-1995.

According to the order, Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Banihal has been ordered to seize the equipment of the KDV and Friends Network with immediate effect.