Kochi: A Twenty-20 medical store, selling medicines at modest prices, at Kizhakkambalam has been directed to shut down by the Returning Officer pointing out a violation of the model code of conduct. 

Returning Officer M S K Umesh, also the District Collector, directed the closure of the medical store taking into consideration that the shop was opened after the model code of conduct came into effect and that selling medicines at very low prices can influence voters. The action came following a complaint filed by two named Sudheer C S and Althaf M M.

The Kitex Medical Store was opened, promising medicines with a huge discount up to 80 percent, on March 21, five days after the Election Commission announced the dates for the upcoming general elections.  The store was inaugurated by Kitex MD Sabu M Jacob, who is also the chairman of Twenty-20 political party. 

The Returning Officer has pointed out the direct association between the medical store and Sabu in his report, which further stated, even though Sabu said the medical store has nothing to do with the Twnety-20 party and that he inaugurated the store in his capacity as the Kitex director, this can prompt the buyers to vote for the Twenty-20. Hence the store has to be shut down, it stated. 

The report also directed to remove the inauguration ceremony video from Sabu’s official social media handles and the internet as well.