Lucknow: The Election Commission has sought immediately a detailed report from the Uttar Pradesh Government on distribution of sarees at a function in Lucknow today (Apr 12, 2004) on the occasion of senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lalji Tandon's birthday.

Addressing a press conference, Chief Election Commissioner T S Krishnamurthy said he has asked chief secretary V K Diwan to immediately furnish a report on the programme.

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After studying the report an appropriate decision will be taken, the CEC said when asked whether the programme violated the model code of conduct.

He expressed anguish over the death of 21 women in a stampede during the distribution of sarees.

About the compensation announced by the State Government to the families of those killed and to the injured, he said the report would cover this aspect also.