The Election Flying Squad raided a shop at Udyavar near Udupi on Tuesday on getting information that saris with pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were allegedly being distributed for free. Two saris that each had five pictures of Mr. Modi were seized.
According to the police, Anita Bhaskar, assistant director and MCC nodal officer, received information that the saris were being distributed at Jayalaxmi Silks. She along with flying squad officer Nagaraj asked the shop owners to show the stock. They pointed out to the owners that the Deputy Commissioner had warned against sale at discount rates or for free as it violated the model code of conduct.
The owners demanded a search warrant and refused to furnish details. They allegedly threatened Ms. Bhaskar and accused her of seeking bribe. A case was registered under Sections 353, 504 and 506 of IPC and Section 123(1) of The Representation of the People Act at Kaup police station, the police said. Ms. Bhaskar told The Hindu that the owners and 15 staff members surrounded them. It was only after the police arrived they were able to check stock, she said.