GUWAHATI: The Election Commission (EC) of India has initiated an investigation into alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, following complaints from their respective parties.
In a move to address the allegations, the EC has invoked section 77 of the Representation of the People Act and has held party presidents responsible for the conduct of star campaigners. As a first step, EC has directed BJP President JP Nadda and Congress President Mallikarjuna Kharge to respond to the allegations against Modi and Gandhi by 11 AM on April 29.
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"Political parties must take primary responsibility for the conduct of their candidates, particularly star campaigners. Campaign speeches by those holding high positions have more serious consequences," the Election Commission noted in a statement.
The BJP filed a complaint with the poll panel accusing Rahul Gandhi of making false claims about the rise in poverty in the country. The BJP also accused Gandhi of attempting to create a North-South divide based on language and region, which, they argue, could vitiate the electoral environment.
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On the other hand, the Congress party lodged a complaint seeking action against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Congress memorandum called for zero tolerance toward corrupt practices, suggesting disqualification for candidates who try to create divisions between different classes of Indian citizens, regardless of their stature or position.
