"Stop campaign speeches that may divide society": EC directs BJP
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New Delhi: The Election Commission, facing criticism for what many perceived as leniency towards the BJP and its leaders, issued a stern directive to both the ruling party and the Opposition against campaigning on the basis of "caste, community, language, and religion."
The Commission emphasized that the party in power during elections has an extra responsibility, but also noted that the opposition should not receive unlimited leeway. This directive comes ahead of the last two phases of the election.
"Political parties will have to take primary responsibility for the conduct of their candidates, star campaigners in particular. Campaign speeches by those holding high positions are of more serious consequences," stated the Commission.
Specifically, the BJP, as the ruling party at the Centre, has been instructed to cease campaign speeches that might divide society. The Commission expressed its expectation that the BJP would "fully align campaign methods to the practical aspects of the composite and sensitive fabric of India."
The Commission highlighted that star campaigners must adhere to the Model Code directive: "No Party or candidate shall include in any activity which may aggravate existing difference or create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes and communities, religious or linguistic."
"India's socio-cultural milieu is an enduring preserve which cannot be made a casualty to elections," the Commission stated. It added that the major parties must not undermine the heritage of quality electoral experience for Indian voters.
This directive comes amid significant criticism of the Commission's handling of Model Code violation allegations against both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Following petitions from each party against the other's leader, the Commission issued notices to the respective party chiefs.
Critics have also raised concerns about the Commission's silence on Model Code Violation complaints and its findings. Additionally, the poll body has been criticized for discontinuing the traditional practice of holding press briefings after each phase of the election.
