Udupi: The district officials of the Election Commission seized the election publicity campaign vehicle of Pramod Madhwaraj, which was parked outside the Inspection Bunglow on Wednesday, March 28.

The district officials of the Election Commission led by Poovitha, Probationary IAS officer seized the vehicle citing that the vehicle was being used for canvassing without prior permission. The vehicle was taken to the DC’s office, Manipal.

The campaigning vehicle has party symbol and minister’s picture on it. Poovitha said that license was issued until 31st March 2018. But the model code of conduct came into effect soon after the Election Commission declared the election dates on March 27. The canvassing team of that vehicle should renew the license as soon as elections are declared. But, the driver or the party is not able to renew the license for the same.

There were plenty of controversies regarding the campaign vehicle as it had no symbol of the Congress party and images of the party leaders. 

Due to this, speculations were rife that Pramod Madhwaraj was soon joining the BJP. The campaigning vehicle was plying since many days in the city, but after several speculations Pramod Madhwaraj instructed to place the party symbol on the vehicle, it is learnt.

Meanwhile, the Minister too, on Wednesday cleared the air by announcing that he was not shifting loyalty, over social media.