New Delhi: Political temperatures are high regarding the assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. Major political parties are heavily engaged in campaigning. Meanwhile, the Election Commission has sent notices to both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party at the Center and the opposition Congress. This notice has been given regarding the speeches of Amit Shah and Rahul Gandhi during the election campaign. Both the leaders have been accused of violating the model code of conduct in their speeches. While issuing the notice, the Commission has sought reply from both the parties by Monday. The Election Commission has not named Amit Shah and Rahul Gandhi in its notice, as is usually the case. However, the party has been held responsible for its star campaigners.
That’s why the Election Commission issued a notice
BJP had filed a complaint with the Election Commission on a speech given by Rahul Gandhi in Mumbai on November 6. At the same time, Congress had objected to Amit Shah’s speech given at the Dhanbad rally on November 12. BJP accused Rahul Gandhi of making false, baseless, unverified and baseless comments. At the same time, Congress accused Amit Shah of making false, misleading, malicious and derogatory comments. Congress also alleges that Amit Shah has given statements inciting voters on the basis of religion and caste.
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Notice between Jharkhand-Maharashtra elections
In the notice sent to both the parties, the Election Commission has reminded of its advisory issued on May 22, 2024. The commission had then asked BJP president JP Nadda and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to ensure that their star campaigners adhere to high standards of political speeches and follow the provisions of the model code of conduct in letter and spirit.
What did the Election Commission say in the notice
The Election Commission had said in its advisory that star campaigners have special status due to Section 77 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. In such a situation, star campaigners are expected to deliver high level speeches and have a balanced view on local issues. The Election Commission had said that the speeches of star campaigners are judged on higher standards than those of other leaders. The Election Commission may soon take a decision on the issue of Congress releasing its manifesto in Jharkhand. BJP has also complained to the Election Commission in this matter.
BJP had complained about Rahul Gandhi
The BJP alleges that the Congress has violated the Model Code of Conduct by releasing its manifesto on November 12, 48 hours before the first phase of voting on November 13. According to the Model Code of Conduct, under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, issuing manifesto in silent period is prohibited, even in multi-phase elections. The Chief Electoral Officer of the state has sent a report to the Election Commission in this matter.
Congress had raised questions on Amit Shah’s speech
The Election Commission has sent notices to the presidents of both BJP and Congress parties on the complaint received against Amit Shah and Rahul Gandhi. They have been asked to respond to these notices by the afternoon of 18th November. The Election Commission has not named Amit Shah or Rahul Gandhi in these notices, as is usually the case. The commission has held the party responsible for its star campaigners, just like in the Lok Sabha elections, as complaints were received against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in that election.
Both parties will have to answer before EC
The Election Commission has sent a notice to BJP President JP Nadda after a complaint received from Congress on Amit Shah’s speech on November 12. Congress has alleged in its complaint that Shah had made false, misleading, malicious and derogatory comments against Congress and its allies in his speech. Similarly, Kharge has been sent a copy of BJP’s complaint on Rahul Gandhi’s November 6 speech. BJP has alleged in its letter that Rahul Gandhi in his speech made false, baseless, unverified and baseless allegations against BJP and tried to create division between the citizens of the two states.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Political Analyst
Editor: Good morning, and welcome to a special segment on Time.news. Today, we’re diving into the political maelstrom surrounding the upcoming assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. With us is Dr. Anil Joshi, a renowned political analyst and expert on electoral governance. Dr. Joshi, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Joshi: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: The political atmosphere is undeniably charged right now, particularly with the latest notices issued by the Election Commission to the BJP and Congress regarding speeches made by their star campaigners, Amit Shah and Rahul Gandhi. How significant is this development?
Dr. Joshi: It’s very significant, indeed. The Election Commission’s action underscores its commitment to enforcing the model code of conduct, especially in a heated election environment. Politicians and parties are under scrutiny to ensure their campaigns remain fair and democratic. This notice serves as a reminder that even prominent leaders must adhere to these guidelines.
Editor: To what extent do you believe these notices will impact the campaigns of both parties?
Dr. Joshi: The impact could be substantial. Voter perception is critical, and any indication of misconduct or the appearance of unfairness can sway public opinion. The BJP and Congress both rely heavily on their star campaigners to galvanize support, so if their speeches are viewed as inflammatory or misleading, it might lead to a backlash against their respective parties.
Editor: Speaking of star campaigners, the Commission has highlighted that they are held to a higher standard. In your opinion, what should be the role of star campaigners in political campaigns?
Dr. Joshi: Star campaigners should aim to elevate the discourse around local issues and engage voters with meaningful, constructive dialogue. Considering their significant reach and influence, they bear a greater responsibility to maintain decorum and inspire trust. The Election Commission’s emphasis on standards reflects the need for accountability among those in leadership positions.
Editor: Both parties have filed complaints against each other’s campaign speeches, claiming violations of the code. What does this back-and-forth mean for electoral integrity in the region?
Dr. Joshi: It illustrates a highly adversarial political climate where parties are quick to point fingers. While competition is a healthy part of democracy, this can also spiral into a toxic environment if not managed carefully. Continuous mudslinging may alienate voters who prefer substantive discussions over personal attacks. It’s crucial for both parties to focus on constructive engagement if they wish to foster electoral integrity.
Editor: The Election Commission’s advisory mentioned that star campaigners should provide a balanced view on local issues. Do you believe this is being effectively communicated to voters at this time?
Dr. Joshi: There is a gap, unfortunately. While the Commission has set expectations, the messaging from the campaign trail often strays into divisive rhetoric. This disconnect may result in voters feeling disillusioned with traditional party politics. It’s imperative for both parties to realign their messaging towards community-building and inclusive development.
Editor: what are your thoughts on the timing of Congress’s manifesto release, which the BJP claims violated the Model Code of Conduct?
Dr. Joshi: Timing is crucial in politics. Releasing a manifesto just before elections can significantly affect the narrative. If the Election Commission finds that Congress breached the code, it could face consequences that damage its credibility. Regardless, both parties must play by the same rules to uphold fairness for the electorate.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Joshi, for your valuable insights into these critical issues. As the elections loom closer, it will be fascinating to see how these dynamics evolve.
Dr. Joshi: Absolutely, and thank you for shedding light on these matters. Let’s hope for a fair and transparent electoral process.
Editor: And to our audience, thank you for tuning in to Time.news. Stay informed as we continue to follow the unfolding political landscape in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.