The Election Commission has halted the financial aid provided to farmers under the Rythu Bandhu Scheme in Telangana after a state minister violated the model code of conduct by publicly announcing it. Initially, the poll panel had granted permission to the state government to distribute the rabi crop installment during the model code of conduct period, subject to certain conditions. However, one of the conditions was that the state should not publicize the disbursement during the election period. Telangana is scheduled to hold elections on November 30.
In response to the violation, the Election Commission has informed the state chief electoral officer about its decision to withdraw the permission. The state finance minister had made a public announcement regarding the release of the disbursements. He reportedly stated that the amount would be credited into the farmers’ accounts on Monday, even before they finished their breakfast and tea.
The Election Commission’s action comes as a response to the state minister’s violation of the model code of conduct, which aims to ensure fair elections by prohibiting political parties and candidates from influencing voters through undue advantages or announcements.
