An FIR has been lodged against prominent BJP leaders JP Nadda, Amit Malviya, and BY Vijayendra over a controversial social media post, alleging intimidation of SC and ST community members regarding their voting preferences.
The complaint, filed by the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), accuses the BJP leaders of violating the model code of conduct and promoting enmity between different classes.
The contentious video, shared on social media, depicted animated characters of Rahul Gandhi and Siddaramaiah, with the SC, ST, and OBC communities symbolised as eggs in a nest.
It suggested Rahul Gandhi planting a big egg representing the Muslim community, which purportedly displaced the SC, ST, and OBC communities. The video was deemed derogatory and aimed at dissuading SC and ST voters from supporting a particular candidate.
The KPCC complaint alleges that the BJP leaders' intent was to prevent or intimidate SC and ST community members from voting for Congress by projecting that funds meant for them would be diverted to Muslims. Such actions, it argues, violate the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act and promote enmity between different religions.
In response, the Karnataka Congress filed a formal complaint with the Election Commission, asserting that the video portrayed the Congress as favouring Muslims while suppressing SC/ST and OBC communities.
It further questions the approval process for the video's release and demands action against those responsible for its creation and dissemination.
The BJP's social media post, featuring caricatures of Rahul Gandhi and Siddaramaiah, placing a "Muslim" egg in a nest alongside eggs marked as SC, ST, and OBC, sparked outrage.
The video insinuated that only the Muslim community received financial support, potentially influencing voter sentiments against Congress.
The controversy underscores the heightened tensions surrounding the Lok Sabha elections, with both parties accusing each other of resorting to divisive tactics.
As the election date approaches, such incidents highlight the need for vigilance in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring fair and unbiased campaigning practices.
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