Ranchi: JMM on Tuesday accused chief minister Raghubar Das of paying for fuel for his security vehicles from the state exchequer for his engagements during the election season and claimed it violated the provisions of the model code of conduct Accusing state home department of double standards, the party wrote to state chief electoral officer L Khiangte and sought similar provision for its president Shibu Soren and his son Hemant citing security concerns during their poll rallies. Shibu and Hemant are former CMs and enjoy Z-plus security cover.The EC’s poll code allows VVIPs — CMs and ministers — to use government vehicles and security personnel during election season, but the fuel expenses have to be borne from their own pockets. The mandate is relaxed only for the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister.“We have learnt that fuel is being supplied to vehicles in CM’s security,” JMM general secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya said. “If the CM can be given fuel, then why not Shibu Soren and Hemant? There are threats to their lives as well,” he added.Normally, the fuel for the CM’s vehicle and his security cavalcade are supplied by the state home department while fuel for cabinet ministers are provided by their respective departments. The home department also provisions vehicles and fuel for former CMs.“As per guidelines, fuel for the CM’s vehicle and that of his security personnel will be provided from state exchequer only when he is travelling between his home and office. If he stops at a political event or visits a party office on his way, it will be considered a private visit and will come under poll code violation,” an officer in CEO’s office said.In its letter, JMM said Shibu and Hemant, their star campaigners, have imminent security threats. “Since fuel supply has been stopped, security personnel are finding it difficult to move. In such a case, both the leaders face great security risks,” the party said.Senior officers in the state home, jail and disaster management department did not respond to calls made till evening.Khiangte said he is yet to receive JMM’s letter. “I will comment only after going through the complaint. But everyone who gets Z-plus security will be treated equally. If anyone is found flouting the model code, the individual has to pay from his own pocket,” he added.

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