Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's request for a week's time to file evidence to back up his allegations against Union minister Amit Shah, has been rejected by the Election Commission. He has been given time till 7 pm today to file his response, along with evidence that Mr Shah had called up and intimidated district officers ahead of tomorrow's counting of votes.
The Commission had earlier said they had received no complaints on the issue from any district magistrate or other officials. Mr Ramesh had sought a week's time to file his rebuttal.
"Your allegation that attempts have been made to influence the District Magistrates of around 150 Parliamentary Constituencies, who are also the ROs/DEOs, has serious connotation and direct bearing on the sanctity of the counting process, scheduled for tomorrow," the Commission said in its response.
"As mentioned in Commissions letter dated 02.06.2024, no DM has reported any such undue influence as alleged by you. Therefore, the Commission hereby outrightly rejects your request for time extension," the letter read.
In absence of a response by due time, "it would be presumed that you have nothing substantive to say in the matter" and the Commission would take appropriate action," the letter read.