“Election Commission Probes Alleged Model Code Violations by PM Modi and Rahul Gandhi, Seeks Responses”

In Short

• Election Commission seeks responses from BJP, Congress by April 29
• Congress had moved ECI over PM’s ‘wealth to infiltrators’ remark
• BJP had accused Rahul Gandhi of creating ‘North-South divide’

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated an investigation into alleged violations of the model code of conduct by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

The poll panel has requested responses from both the BJP and Congress by April 29, regarding the accusations leveled against their respective leaders.

Allegations of causing hatred through election campaign speeches have been raised by both the BJP and Congress against Rahul Gandhi and PM Modi, respectively.

In response, the ECI invoked Section 77 of the Representation of the People Act, holding party presidents accountable as the first step to curb such violations by star campaigners.

The Election Commission conveyed the alleged model code violations by PM Modi and Rahul Gandhi to BJP President JP Nadda and Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge.

They have been asked to provide a response by 11 am on April 29.

While issuing the notice, the ECI emphasized the heightened responsibility of political parties to monitor the conduct of their candidates and star campaigners.

It stressed that campaign speeches made by individuals holding prominent positions carry significant implications.

The allegations against PM Modi stem from his remarks at a rally in Rajasthan’s Banswara on April 21, where he suggested that the Congress, if elected, would distribute the nation’s wealth among “infiltrators” and families with more children, implying the Muslim community.

Despite PM Modi reiterating these claims at subsequent rallies in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, the Congress manifesto does not contain the elements highlighted by him.

Conversely, the BJP has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission against Rahul Gandhi for asserting that poverty had escalated in the country.

Additionally, the BJP accuses Rahul Gandhi of fomenting discord between India’s North and South based on language and regional disparities.

The Election Commission’s inquiry underscores its commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that political campaigns adhere to ethical standards and the principles of fair competition.