'Poll Panauti': Election Commission Issues Warning To Rahul Gandhi Over Controversial Remark

The Election Commission has reportedly urged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to exercise greater care and caution in his public statements following his remarks referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "panauti (bad omen)" and "pickpocket."

Sources claim that, in response to a directive from the Delhi High Court in December last year, the poll panel has asked Gandhi to adhere strictly to its recent advisory for star campaigners and political leaders during election campaigns.

Photo Credit: PTI

Rahul Gandhi's 'Poll Panauti' remark

In its advisory dated March 1, 2024, the Election Commission (EC) warned that parties, candidates, and star campaigners would face severe action, rather than just 'moral censure,' for any violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Additionally, it stated that star campaigners and candidates who had previously received notices would face stern action for any repeated violations.

Last year, the EC issued a notice to Gandhi following his use of the terms "panauti" and "pickpocket" about the prime minister. In response to a directive from the Delhi High Court on December 21, the commission was asked to address these comments, deeming them "not in good taste." As per sources, the EC advised Gandhi to exercise greater caution in his future public statements.

The source stated, "After considering all facts regarding remarks such as 'jebkatra' (pickpocket) and 'panauti,' including the court order and Gandhi's response, the Election Commission has advised Gandhi to exercise greater care and caution in the future."

Reportedly, the commission has also instructed Gandhi, as a star campaigner, to take into account its advisory dated March 1 for all parties, star campaigners, and candidates while making public statements.

The poll panel issued a notice to Gandhi on November 23, seeking his response regarding his speeches during campaign events for the assembly elections in Rajasthan.

During his poll speech, the former Congress president made the "pickpocket" accusation against Modi, alleging that the prime minister distracts people while industrialist Gautam Adani picks their pockets, likening it to how teams of pickpockets operate.