Lucknow: Welcoming the announcement of Assembly poll dates of five states on Saturday by the Election Commission of India, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati asked ECI to fulfill its responsibility of conducting this election free, fair, smooth and peacefully according to the aspiration of the people.

In a series of tweets, Mayawati said, "Especially the tendency of the ruling party to violate the Model Code of Conduct by adopting new tactics in every election is becoming fatally common, which needs to be given due attention and prompt action in this election. Special appeal to the Election Commission to look into it seriously".

"Election is a festival of democracy, for which the poor, labourers and working people are very excited, whose feelings and rights must be protected in every way, especially on the day of voting. It is better if the protection of the suffrage of citizens is in accordance with the intention of the Constitution like their fundamental right," she added.

Mayawati further directed the party leaders and workers, stating that strict instructions have been given to all office bearers, workers and candidates to strictly comply with the party discipline, as well as the Model Code of Conduct applicable from today itself.