EC rejects Yogi's explanation for 'Modi ki Sena' remark

The Election Commission on Friday rejected Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's explanation on his recent speech referring to Indian Army as "Modi Ji Ki Sena".

The EC advised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister to refrain from using issues related to defence forces or the activities of the defence forces for political purposes.

Adityanath referred to Indian Army as "Modi Ji Ki Sena" (Army of Prime Minister Narendra Modi) while addressing an election rally in support of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party candidate at Ghaziabad in his State recently.

The EC had asked for an explanation from him as the opposition parties alleged that his comment had lowered the dignity of the defence forces of India.

The poll-panel had on March 9 and March 19 issued advisories asking political parties to refrain from using photographs or videos of any defence personnel or any defence forces as well as from referring to the activities of the defence forces during electioneering.

The ruling BJP has of late been highlighting India's September 2016 surgical strikes across its Line of Control with Pakistan as well as its recent air-strike on a terror camp deep inside Pakistan.