Srinagar, Waheed Para, a leader from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and candidate for the Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency, has been booked by authorities for comments made during an election rally, which have been interpreted by the Indian government as a breach of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

According to Kashmir Media Service, Para’s controversial remarks, in which he suggested the elections be seen as a “referendum,” led to an FIR being filed against him at Pulwama police station on May 8, under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code for disobedience to an order duly promulgated by a public servant. The incident stemmed from a roadshow held in Pulwama on April 27, reportedly conducted without the necessary permissions from local authorities. In addition to the police action, Para received a formal notice from the election department, condemning his statements as a violation of the electoral code of conduct.