In a significant development ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, the Delhi Police on Wednesday filed an FIR against BJP leader Parvesh Verma for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The FIR pertains to Verma's distribution of shoes in the Valmiki Colony within the jurisdiction of Mandir Marg Police Station.

The action came after the Election Commission (EC) wrote to the Station House Officer (SHO) of Mandir Marg, directing an investigation into the matter. The returning officer (RO) for the New Delhi Assembly constituency, in a letter dated January 15, cited video evidence showing Verma distributing shoes to women in the colony. Following the EC?s directive, the SHO lodged the FIR and initiated a probe.

Election Code Violation in High-Stakes Constituency

Parvesh Verma, a BJP candidate contesting from the high-profile New Delhi Assembly seat, is pitted against AAP national convenor and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, as well as Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, son of former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit. The seat has drawn significant attention as it promises a trilateral contest between the three major political parties.

The alleged distribution of shoes was flagged as an MCC violation by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which has been vocal in its criticism of Verma's campaign methods. The complaint also coincided with allegations of other election malpractices, including cash distribution to voters in the constituency.

AAP's Allegations and Demand for Action

Earlier in the week, AAP leaders, including Delhi CM Atishi, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, and AAP MP Sanjay Singh, met with Election Commission officials to demand action against Verma. The party accused the BJP leader of manipulating the voter list and distributing cash to voters to influence the outcome of the election.

AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, himself a candidate from the New Delhi seat, sharply criticized Verma. He alleged that Verma had distributed ?1,100 to women in the constituency and labeled him a "traitor" who had dishonored the legacy of his father, Sahib Singh Verma, a former Delhi CM and BJP stalwart.

The AAP further escalated its complaint by involving the Enforcement Directorate (ED), alleging money laundering in connection with the cash distribution. The party demanded that a case be registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Verma and his associates.

Verma's Defense

Parvesh Verma has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the monetary aid and shoe distribution were carried out by a social organization, Rashtriya Swabhiman, founded by his father. He asserted that the initiative was intended to help underprivileged women in the constituency and vowed to continue such activities despite the FIR.