Tuesday, May 31 2005 19:37 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today (May 31, 2005) alleged misuse of official machinery in Goa where by-elections are being held in five Assembly constituencies and sought the intervention of Election Commission (EC) for strict implementation of Model Code of Conduct.

BJP vice-president Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has written to the EC alleging that the ruling Congress was violating the Code of Conduct and that Congress candidates and their supporters were reportedly caught "red-handed" while distributing liquor Yesterday (May 31, 2005).

"These days, the ruling Congress is indulging in gross violation of Election Model Code of Conduct (in Goa) and Government machinery is being misused openly," the letter said.

He alleged that voters are being lured openly by use of money and liquor.

Seeking strict implementation of the model code of conduct, Naqvi sought deputation of special observers to ensure that, "Congress is not able to use Government power, money power and muscle power to affect impartiality of the elections."

The BJP leader noted that these by-elections were essential, as these will determine which party gets majority to form Government in the State.