AAP asked to alter campaign song by Election Commission
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The Election Commission (EC) has instructed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to modify its campaign song following complaints alleging violations of advertising rules and the poll body's guidelines during the election period.
The BJP had raised concerns with the EC, asserting that the AAP's campaign song targeted central investigation agencies and the BJP itself.
AAP leader Atishi expressed her views on the matter, stating, "It is probably the first time that the EC has imposed a ban on a party's campaign song." She emphasized that the song, in its current form, cannot be used due to the required changes. Atishi defended the song, claiming it does not explicitly mention the BJP and does not breach the model code of conduct.
However, she criticized the EC for allegedly ignoring violations committed by the BJP.
Atishi accused the BJP of dictatorial actions and urged the EC to address violations by the ruling party. She expressed concern over the perceived threat to democracy, emphasizing the importance of fair play in elections.
In its communication to the AAP, the EC cited violations of advertising codes outlined in the Cable Television Network Rules, 1994, and its own guidelines. The EC instructed the AAP to modify the content of the campaign song accordingly.
The AAP's campaign song, lasting over two minutes, was created by party MLA Dilip Pandey and released at the party headquarters. The AAP has been actively campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections despite the absence of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former deputy Manish Sisodia, who are both embroiled in legal issues related to the Delhi liquor policy case.
Arvind Kejriwal has challenged his arrest in connection with the case, labeling it as an assault on democratic principles. He criticized the timing of his arrest just before the elections, questioning the motives of the enforcement agencies involved.
The Supreme Court is set to hear Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest, highlighting the ongoing legal battle amidst the election season.