The Election Commission on Monday severely reprimanded Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad for violating the model code of conduct by distributing money to poor women.

In its order, the commission told the RJD and its leaders that this was the "last opportunity" for them to honour the code and abide by it both "in letter and spirit".

The commission said it would not hesitate to take exemplary action against the party in case of further violation.