Poll Panel's Warning Amid Row Over Arvind Sawant's Shaina NC Comment

Mr Kumar was reacting to controversy over comments by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant about Shaina NC, a BJP leader who joined the Shinde Sena faction to contest the election.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has condemned political leaders remarks against women and directed officials to deal sternly with violators, news agency ANI said Friday.

Sources told ANI Mr Kumar's reaction came during a review meet with district poll officers, municipal commissioners, and police chiefs before the November 20 Maharashtra election.

The Election Commission had earlier directed political parties and candidates to refrain from deeds, actions or utterances that will be repugnant to the honour and dignity of women.