New Delhi: Election Commission officials conducted inspections of helicopters transporting political leaders on Monday, including one carrying Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
Following the landing of the aircraft at Nilgiri, the flying squad, conducted a standard search. Gandhi was en route to his parliamentary constituency, Wayanad in Kerala, where he is engaging in various campaign activities, including public meetings.
Gandhi, contesting in the upcoming April 26 Lok Sabha polls from Wayanad, is seeking re-election for a consecutive term.
Earlier today, he criticized the ruling BJP, alleging the imposition of a singular leadership idea, which he deemed as disrespectful to the diverse fabric of India.
Addressing party workers and constituents in Wayanad, Gandhi emphasized the need for respecting the diversity of India, likening it to a bouquet of flowers.
During the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Gandhi secured victory in Wayanad with a substantial margin of 4,31,770 votes. The polling for Kerala’s 20 Lok Sabha seats is scheduled for April 26.
In adherence to standard protocols aimed at curbing the transportation of illicit materials, Election Commission sources confirmed the search of helicopters utilized by both Rahul Gandhi and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee. Gandhi’s helicopter underwent inspection upon his arrival in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu.
The TMC has voiced concerns over the Income Tax Department’s search of a helicopter intended for Abhishek Banerjee’s travel to Haldia on Monday, alleging harassment of opposition candidates.
Despite finding nothing, the officials purportedly threatened to detain the aircraft unlawfully. Banerjee claimed that his security personnel recorded the incident, although officials compelled them to delete the footage.