Ranchi, Feb. 20 -- With only days remaining for the February 23 Ranchi municipal corporation (RMC) elections, the capital's political atmosphere has reached a fervent pitch. Despite the elections officially being contested on non-party basis, a fierce triangular 'blame game' has erupted between the JMM, BJP, and Congress, with each accusing the other of illegally leveraging party identities to sway voters. The core dispute lies in using official party branding in a contest where candidates are supposed to use 'free symbols' allotted by the State Election Commission (SEC). JMM spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya launched a scathing attack, claiming the non-partisan spirit of the polls had been compromised. "The BJP-backed mayoral candidate is openly using the party's lotus symbol alongside her allotted symbol and identifying as a BJP worker," Bhattacharya alleged. He didn't spare his own ally either, adding, "The Congress-backed candidate is also doing the same with Congress branding." The Congress took the battle to the SEC, submitting a memorandum against the BJP-backed candidate. It alleged a unique form of voter inducement:distributing food packets (biscuits) - which happens to be Roshni Khalko's officially allotted election symbol. "Specially packaged biscuits are being distributed in support of the BJP-backed mayoral candidate, whose election symbol is a "biscuit print." These packages feature the candidate's photo, and a flex of PM Modi attached to it, reflecting the frustration of the BJP-backed candidate," the party alleged. The party termed it a blatant violation of the Model Code of Conduct. "Distributing food packets with photographs on them during election period is a well-planned attempt to influence voters, which is a blatant violation of the Model Code of Conduct," the party alleged. BJP state general secretary and MP Pradeep Verma countered Bhattacharya's statement by issuing a press release, saying the JMM, facing the certain defeat of its supported candidates, was panicking and abusing its power and authority. "JMM leaders are accusing other parties, including its ruling coalition partner, the Congress, of violating the code of conduct. For the first time, JMM has flouted the code of conduct from its own party office, using its election symbol and banner," he alleged. Verma also questioned the JMM's intention for a fair and free election. "If the JMM was so keen, it should have conceded to the BJP's demand and decided to hold elections on party basis," he said. Verma alleged the JMM was preparing for booth capturing....