eci-warns-bjp-and-inc-to-maintain-campaign-decorum

The Election Commission of India has sent notices to BJP president JP Nadda and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge. Both leaders have been instructed to urge their star campaigners to correct their discourse and maintain decorum.

 

This directive from the Commission is unprecedented, reflecting concern over the deteriorating quality of campaigning led by prominent figures from both parties.

 

The Election Commission has criticised both the BJP and the Congress for their campaign strategies, which have increasingly focused on caste, community, language, and religion.

 

The poll body has specifically directed campaigners from both parties to avoid religious and communal rhetoric in their speeches. For the BJP, the Commission has stressed the need to stop campaign speeches that could potentially lead to societal divisions.

 

For the Congress, the Election Commission has issued directives to ensure that their campaigners do not make misleading statements suggesting that the Constitution of India might be abolished or sold.

 

The Commission also addressed the issue of the Agniveer scheme, instructing Congress campaigners and candidates to avoid politicising the defence forces and making divisive statements about the socio-economic composition of the military.

 

The Election Commission emphasised that India’s socio-cultural fabric is a valuable legacy that must not be compromised during elections. It stated that both the BJP and the Congress should uphold the high standards of electoral conduct that the Indian voter expects.

 

The Commission's observations suggest that while the ruling party bears extra responsibility during election times, the Opposition should also not exploit this period for undue advantage.

 

The first five phases of polling were held on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20. The next two rounds of voting are scheduled for May 25 and June 1. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases over a six-week period from April 19 to June 1. The results are expected to be announced on June 4.

 

This move by the Election Commission highlights its commitment to ensuring a fair and respectful electoral process, free from divisive and inflammatory rhetoric.

 

Both the BJP and Congress are now under scrutiny to adhere to these directives and promote a more constructive and respectful campaign atmosphere. The directives aim to preserve the integrity of India's democratic process and maintain the quality of electoral discourse.