The Election Commission (EC) has issued notices to both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC) over alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct during the recent Karnataka election campaign.
According to sources, the notices were issued following complaints from various individuals and organisations that the two major political parties had breached the code by indulging in hate speeches, using religion to polarise voters, and making false statements about their opponents.
The EC has asked both the BJP and the Congress to respond to the notices within a stipulated time frame and explain their position on the allegations. The commission has also warned that any further violation of the Model Code of Conduct will be dealt with strictly.
The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the EC that all political parties and candidates must follow during elections. The code aims to ensure free and fair elections by preventing parties from making any statements that could potentially influence voters or disrupt the peace.
The EC has been closely monitoring the election campaign in Karnataka, which was held in two phases on April 18 and 23. The results of the election were declared on May 2, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party and forming the government.
The notices issued to the BJP and Congress come amid growing concerns over the use of hate speech and communal polarisation in Indian politics. Critics have accused the BJP, in particular, of using divisive tactics to win elections and consolidate its power.
The notices also highlight the role of the EC in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that all political parties adhere to the rules. With several key state elections and the 2024 general election coming up, the EC’s actions will be closely watched by political observers and the public alike.
