The Jharkhand unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission, alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct following reports of a proposed financial assistance announcement linked to the ‘Maiya Yojana’ during the ongoing urban local body election process.
In a written representation submitted to the State Election Commissioner, the BJP claimed that several leading newspapers on February 8 published reports stating that beneficiaries of the Maiya Yojana would be provided loans worth ₹20,000 for employment purposes. According to the party, the reports appeared while the civic body election schedule was in force.
The BJP pointed out that the State Election Commission had already announced the municipal election programme on January 27, 2026, and that the Model Code of Conduct remains effective till February 23. The party alleged that any such announcement during this period amounts to an inducement aimed at influencing voters, particularly women beneficiaries of the scheme.
The letter further claimed that the reports suggested the announcement was made at the behest of the state government and was intended to impact the civic polls. The BJP asserted that such publicity violated the spirit of free and fair elections and demonstrated disregard for the Model Code of Conduct.
The party urged the Election Commission to issue clear directions restraining the state government from making any announcements related to financial incentives or benefits until the completion of the election process. It also sought action against officials responsible for issuing or facilitating such announcements and requested steps to prevent further publication of related promotional news.