The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a stern reminder to political party leaders on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a decorous tone in their election campaign discourse. Expressing concern over divisive utterances that could disrupt social harmony, the ECI called upon top leaders to set exemplary standards and refrain from inflaming tensions.
In its second suo motu report on the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), the ECI clarified its decision to direct notices to party chiefs instead of individual leaders accused of violating the poll code. The commission underscored the pivotal role of party leadership in steering their campaigners toward adherence to ethical standards.
The ECI’s advisory to party presidents, issued on March 1, 2024, urged them to exercise control over their leaders, candidates, and star campaigners to prevent any statements that contravene the MCC. While reiterating the individual responsibility of campaigners for their speeches, the ECI emphasized its intent to hold party leadership accountable for any lapses.
Last month, the ECI dispatched show-cause notices to BJP National President JP Nadda and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge following complaints of alleged poll code breaches involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. While the notices did not directly target Modi or Gandhi, they were attached with representations received by the ECI.
Critics questioned the ECI’s approach, advocating for direct notices to the accused individuals. However, the ECI defended its strategy, asserting that it aimed to enhance party accountability in upholding the MCC.
In response to allegations of inaction, the Trinamool Congress urged the ECI to curb purported violations of the poll code by BJP leaders, decrying the MCC’s transformation into a “Modi Code of Conduct.” TMC MPs highlighted concerns over the EC’s alleged leniency towards Modi’s statements, urging stricter enforcement of the MCC for the remaining phases of the election.
As the electoral landscape heats up, the ECI’s efforts to maintain decorum in campaign discourse remain paramount, ensuring fair and transparent elections conducive to democratic ideals.
