EC Takes Cognisance Against PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged MCC Violations

The Election Commission of India has taken cognisance for violating Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. They have been asked to respond to the violation by 11 am on April 29.

While PM Modi has criticised Muslims, without directly naming them, using terms like 'infiltrators' and 'those with more children', Rahul has been accused of falsely claiming a 'rise in poverty'.

Both the BJP and INC have been accused of promoting hatred and division based on caste, religion, language, and community, as reported by ANI.

On Monday, the BJP lodged a complaint with the EC, alleging that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had made false statements regarding the increase in poverty in India and urged for "strict action" to be taken against him. They also accused Gandhi of fostering a North-South divide in the country based on language and region to disrupt the electoral environment.

In a countermove, the Congress approached the EC and formally filed a complaint against the Prime Minister. The Congress memorandum called for action, stating that "the only available remedy compatible with the principle of zero tolerance towards allegations of corrupt practices is the disqualification of candidates who seek to create a divide between different classes of Indian citizens, regardless of the candidate's stature or position."

Initially, the EC declined to comment on PM Modi's speeches, but sources informed PTI that the commission was 'examining' the remarks made by the BJP leader. The ECI has requested responses from both parties by 11 am on April 29.

The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections commenced on April 19 with the first phase. he other phases are slated for April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The results for all 543 Lok Sabha seats will be declared on June 4.