Election Commission has defended Varanasi District Magistrate and Returning Officer Pranjal Yadav , saying permission was denied to hold a rally by BJP leader Narendra Modi on basis of professional advice.

Asserting that it is working strictly in a non-partisan manner, Chief Election Commissioner V S Sampath said that the Commission is disappointed over questions being raised over its impartiality.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi today he asked leaders of political parties to use proper discourse while referring to Constitutional bodies like the Election Commission Sampath made it clear that the poll-panel is not afraid of any political party or entity in discharging its duties.

He said, the Commission goes by the advice of the local administration, where security issues are involved. Sampath pointed out that three thousand public meetings have been conducted successfully across the country during the ongoing elections and political parties must understand issues relating to permission for campaign purposes should be asked for with due notice. He said, the EC has delivered free and fair elections over the past 63 years.

On Rahul Gandhi visiting EVM enclosure in Amethi on the day of polling, Sampath said, factual report has been sought from the Returning Officer and action will be taken only after examining it.