The Election Commission (EC) of New Delhi has recently issued a show-cause notice to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during recent rallies in Rajasthan. The notice came in response to a complaint filed by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which found Gandhi’s comments “unbecoming” of a “very senior leader.”
The BJP’s complaint stated that Gandhi’s allegations of loan waivers for industrialists and derogatory terms like “panauti” and “pickpocket” were in violation of the Model Code of Conduct. The EC reminded Gandhi that making unverified allegations against political rivals is prohibited by the code.
In particular, the EC noted that the term “panauti” used by Gandhi to describe the Prime Minister’s presence at the World Cup cricket final falls within the scope of corrupt practices outlined in the Representation of the People Act. The term loosely refers to someone who brings bad luck.
Additionally, the EC referenced a general advisory expressing concerns about the decline in the quality of political discourse during election campaigns. The notice also mentioned a Supreme Court observation about the need to balance freedom of speech with the right to reputation, as outlined in the Indian Constitution.
Gandhi has been asked to provide an explanation for his remarks and show cause as to why action for the alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct and relevant penal provisions should not be initiated. The deadline for his response is 6:00 PM on November 25. Failure to reply by the deadline may result in further action by the commission.
