The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken cognizance of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a rally in poll-bound Rajasthan, issuing a show cause notice for alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct. In response to a complaint filed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the ECI asserted that Gandhi’s choice of words, including terms like “Jaib Katra” (pickpocket) and “panauti” (unlucky), was unbecoming of a senior leader from a national political party.
Election Commission of India issues notice to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on his 'panauti' and 'pickpocket' jibes at PM Modi, asks him to respond by 25th November pic.twitter.com/CcrIlU6I9o
— ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2023
What Rahul Gandhi said
The ECI’s notice served to Rahul Gandhi, pointing out that the Model Code of Conduct explicitly prohibits political leaders from making unverified allegations against their rivals. The BJP’s complaint alleged that Gandhi’s statements, particularly the claim of a Rs 14,00,000 crore waiver over the past nine years, lacked factual basis.
It's official now. 💮 #Panautipic.twitter.com/4HoDvsOye2
— Rofl Gandhi 2.0 🏹 (@RoflGandhi_) November 21, 2023
During the rally in Barmer, Rahul Gandhi coined the phrase “Panauti Modi,” suggesting that the Prime Minister brought ill luck to the Indian cricket team during the World Cup final. He further used a metaphor involving pickpockets, stating that they never operate alone, drawing parallels between PM Modi, Adani, and Amit Shah.
Also Read: Rahul Calls PM ‘Panauti’: BJP Demands Apology For ‘Shameful And Disgraceful Remark’
ECI Upholds Ethical Standards
The ECI has scheduled Rahul Gandhi’s appearance before the poll panel on November 25, signaling a serious response to the alleged violations. The notice also highlights the responsibility of political leaders to maintain decorum and adhere to the ethical standards outlined in the Model Code of Conduct.
In response to the Election Commission’s action, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge affirmed the party’s readiness to address every notice. The development underscores the increasing scrutiny of political discourse and the importance of maintaining civility in public statements during election campaigns.
This incident adds to the broader conversation around the use of language in political discourse, with the ECI playing a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of the electoral process. As the political landscape continues to evolve, such instances serve as reminders of the need for responsible and respectful communication among leaders vying for public support.
[…] Also Read: Show Cause Notice To Rahul Gandhi For Modi “Jaib Katra” And “Panauti” Remark […]