British MP Keith Vaz under EC scanner

Panaji, Feb 14 (IBNS) A political rally addressed by British MP of Indian origin Keith Vaz in support of a Congress candidate has attracted controversy as election officers in Goa have sought experts' opinion on the issue.

Vaz, who is sent to Goa to strengthen relations between India and Britain through a business conference, had campaigned for controversial minister Churchill Alemao's daughter Valanka at Varca from where she is contesting the March 3 polls.

"The rules are not specific on whether elected representative of another country can campaign in India for the local elections. We have taken cognizance and sought experts' whether he can get involved in local politics," Joint Chief Electoral Officer Narayan Navti told reporters.

Speaking to reporters' on the sidelines of the business event last week, Vaz was quoted as saying to reporters, "I know Valanka for 20 years. I actually encouraged her to stand. I said if you stand and I am ever in Goa, I will support you."

(Reporting by John Edwards)