Kailash Vijayvargiya is ssen here distributing cash during a rally on Friday
The Election Commission today issue notice to Madhya Pradesh Industries Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya for violating the model code of conduct by distributing money during a function in Mhow.
Madhya Pradesh votes on November 25 and according to the code of conduct, which comes into play once the polls are announced, candidates and parties are forbidden from attending religious ceremonies or taking any action or making an announcement that could influence voters.
Mr Vijayvargiya, who was caught on camera distributing notes of Rs. 100 to girls during the function, said he was not trying to buy votes, and that he may decide not to run for office.
The minister also said he was "performing a ritual" over the weekend at a religious function honouring girls in Mhow in the Western part of the state. He said that traditionally, the ceremony includes giving money to girls as a way of honouring them.
Leaders of the Opposition Congress had asked the Election Commission to censure the minister.