National Desk, 22nd May: In a bid to uphold the integrity of election campaigning, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken decisive action by issuing formal notices to BJP president JP Nadda and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge. The notices urge both parties to advise their star campaigners to uphold decorum and exercise restraint in their public discourse, amidst growing concerns over the deteriorating quality of election campaigning.
The ECI’s intervention comes in response to the alarming rise of divisive rhetoric surrounding caste, community, language, and religion in recent campaign speeches. The commission’s unprecedented orders aim to quell the inflammatory and communal overtones that have marred the electoral landscape.
Specifically, the BJP has been directed to steer clear of speeches that could potentially fuel societal division. Similarly, the Congress has been cautioned against making statements that may perpetuate false perceptions, such as claims regarding the hypothetical abolition or sale of the Indian Constitution. Additionally, Congress campaigners have been advised against politicizing the Agniveer scheme and making statements regarding the socio-economic composition of the defense forces that could sow division.
These measures underscore the ECI’s commitment to fostering a more respectful and unifying approach to election campaigning. By setting clear boundaries and expectations, the commission seeks to ensure that political discourse remains within the bounds of decorum and national interest, safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
Read More: Sikkim Government Enforces Stricter Penalties to Enhance Road Safety