Earlier in the day, Congress nominee Rai landed in trouble as police registered as FIR against him following directive from the Election Commission for allegedly violating the election code of conduct by wearing the party poll symbol on his kurta while going to cast vote.
Senior police officials said the FIR against Rai has been lodged at the Sigra police station and section 126 and 130 of Representation of Peoples Act and section 171 (H) of IPC relating to poll code of conduct.
Defending his action, Rai said he did not wear the badge intentionally and the election officials at the booth should have informed him about the violation. The booth at Ramakant Nagar where Rai cast his vote reported 50 per cent polling till 3 PM.
Early voters included Kashi King Anant Narayan Singh while sitting MP Murli Manohar JoshI also cast his vote. Joshi's remarks about Rai flashing the election symbol being a “small thing” which should not be given much importance by BJP raised eyebrows as a number of party leaders had ealier demanded action against Rai.
