AMN / NEW DELHI

The Election Commission on Monday barred Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati from poll campaigning over violating Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in speeches.

While Adityanath was barred for 72 hours, Mayawati has been barred for 48 hours. Mr Yogi was served the notice for his remarks Ali and Bajrang Bali while addressing a rally in Meerut.

The notice was issued to Mayawati for her speech in Deoband appealing to people of a particular religion to vote in favour of SP, BSP and RLD alliance.

The ban will be effective from 6 AM on Tuesday.

Election Commission has also barred BJP leader and Union Minister Maneka Gandhi for 48 hours and Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan for 72 hours from poll campaigning.

The ban will be effective from 10 AM on Tuesday.

Speaking to media in New Delhi, Congress spokesman Abhishek Manu Singhvi said that the decision to ban Mr. Adityanath was taken on a complaint filed by the party.