Notice to Lagadapati Rajagopal for opinion poll

The Election Commission has issued notice to former MP L. Rajagopal -- of the "pepper-spray" fame -- for violating the model code of conduct by announcing his opinion poll.

Rajagopal who is now associated with Jai Samaikyandhra Party (JSP), had Saturday released the poll, which said the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) will come to power in Telangana.

State Chief Electoral Officer Bhanwarlal also issued notice to more than 10 TV channels which telecast Rajagopal's press conference.

The poll panel has prohibited any opinion or exit poll till the completion of balloting. The second and final phase of voting for the Lok Sabha and assembly elections is scheduled in Seemandhra May 7.

The controversial leader was expelled from the Congress party early this year for stalling the Andhra Pradesh bifurcation bill in parliament. He also used pepper spray in the Lok Sabha when the bill was passed with a voice vote amid the din.