GANDERBAL: Authorities on Saturday registered a case against a National Conference (NC) member and former sarpanch in Ganderbal district for breaching the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Mohammad Ashraf Ganie allegedly used the word “assassination” in his speech while campaigning for the elections at Kachan village in the district, sparking a law and order situation in the area. The MCC nodal officer took serious note of the violation and recommended strict action against Ashraf.
The incident occurred Ganderbal constituency where former Chief Minister and NC Vice President Omar Abdullah is contesting the elections. Ashraf’s comments were reportedly made about those who do not respect the NC flag.
The NC has downplayed the incident, with Provincial Secretary Showkat Ahmad Mir attributing Ashraf’s comment to a slip of the tongue. Mir said there was no malicious intent behind the statement and urged authorities to handle the matter with care.
The case is currently under investigation, with legal proceedings initiated against Ganie. The incident highlights the need for political parties and their members to adhere to the MCC during election campaigns.
In the Ganderbal constituency, 24 candidates are in the fray, including Omar Abdullah, Bashir Ahmed Mir of the PDP, and Congress candidate Sahil Farooq. The NC and Congress have formed a pre-poll alliance in the constituency.

Sheikh Anees