Northeast Desk, 5th April: The Chief Election Officer of Arunachal Pradesh has initiated disciplinary action against members of the Arunachal Christian Forum and the CMC (CEA) for purportedly breaching the Model Code of Conduct. Show-cause notices have been issued following allegations that these individuals were advocating for voters to support Congress candidates who identify as Christian believers.
In a notification dated March 26, 2024, and an appeal dated April 1, 2024, circulated on social media platforms, the ACF & PCFC were found endorsing two MP candidates, Nabam Tuki for Arunachal West Parliamentary Constituency and Shri Bosiram Siram for Arunachal East Parliamentary Constituency, for the upcoming General Election of 2024. They were also urging all members of ACF & PCFC to actively participate in ensuring the victory of the said candidates.
However, the Chief Election Officer referenced the Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act, 1988, which prohibits religious institutions or their managers from utilizing premises under their control for the promotion or propagation of any political activity. The notices issued are considered contradictory to this Act and the Election Commission of India’s Guidelines on Model Code of Conduct.
As a result, the recipients of the notices are required to provide a clarification or show cause for conducting such political propaganda under the banner of a religious institution/organization.
They have been given a deadline of three days from the date of issuance of the notice to respond. Failure to do so will lead to necessary legal action being initiated against them as per the provisions of the law.
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