Union Petroleum Minister, Murli Deora's  remark a few days back, regarding cutting prices on petroleum products has kicked up a controversy.

The BJP had alleged violation of the model code of conduct during elections. The party petitioned the Election Commission which resulted in Deora receiving a notice from the EC earlier this week.

In his six page letter in response to the notice, Deora clarified that he had made the remark at a press conference in reply to a query from the media. He said he had not made any suo moto statement to the effect. 

He clarified that he had not violated the model code of conduct as he had only alluded to a likely review of petroleum products after the elections. In the backdrop of the fall in oil prices from $147 to $50 a barrel, there are expectations that the prices would be reduced, he said.

It is therefore entirely false to allege that any promise of financial grant was made, he said. The model code of conduct is, therefore, not attracted he added.

Deora said it was unfortunate that the issue had been taken to the Election Commission by the BJP.

In their complaint to the Election Commission the BJP leaders had claimed that the crude oil prices fell before the announcement of election. The government has however, chosen to make an announcement before the poll eve to influence voters they claimed.

However, action from the EC is not expected, as the commission is known to object to policy decisions where benefit the nation as a whole is involved.