BJP's 'Chai Pe Charcha' runs into Election Commission trouble

However, poll officials reported that free tea was served to participants at the discussion, which was construed as bribing the voters.

Now, with BJP proposing to organise the third phase of ‘Chai pe charcha with NaMo' across the country on March 20, the party could face further trouble.

But the view in Nirvachan Sadan, EC's headquarters here, is different with poll officials saying that serving a cup of tea worth Rs 2 cannot be termed enticement.  

“The money (spent on serving tea) can be added to BJP's poll expenditure,” said an official.

But UP CEO Sinha holds a different view.  

“There is no ban on holding of such events with prior permission... But anything which is in violation of the Model Code of Conduct will not be permitted at such events.  

“Appropriate action would be taken in cases of any violation,” Sinha said, adding that any kind of free distribution by political parties will be regarded as an attempt to entice voters.

Asked about the EC action, BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad said at a briefing that while the party would examine the matter, the poll panel should consider allowing new campaigning styles which are in sync with the changing times.