Remarks against PM Modi: EC serves notice on Rahul Gandhi; seeks explanation on possible action
New Delhi, November 23: The Election Commission of India has issued a show cause notice to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks directed at Prime Minister Modi during an election rally, using terms such as 'Jaibkatra' (Pickpocket) and 'Pannauti'. The BJP filed a complaint on November 22, citing derogatory language used by Rahul Gandhi against PM Modi.
The ECI's notice to Rahul Gandhi highlighted the complaint's allegations regarding his statements made on November 22 in a public gathering at Bayatu, Barmer district, Rajasthan. The notice mentioned that comparing the Prime Minister to a "Jaibkatra" and using the term "Pannauti" does not befit a senior leader of a national political party. Additionally, the allegation of granting waivers of Rs 14,00,000 crore for the past nine years was disputed by the BJP.
The ECI letter stated that these remarks allegedly violate various Sections, including Section 123(4) of the R.P. Act, Section 171G, 504, 505(2), and 499 of the IPC, as well as provisions of the Model Code of Conduct.
Rahul Gandhi claimed at a rally in Barmer that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's presence at the Narendra Modi stadium was responsible for India's World Cup final loss, referring to him as 'Panauti'.
The Election Commission has asked Rahul Gandhi to explain why action should not be taken against him in this matter by November 25. Failure to respond by then will result in action deemed fit by the Commission.
The BJP, in its complaint to the ECI, urged appropriate action against Rahul Gandhi, stating that such behavior would negatively impact the electoral environment by resorting to abusive language, spreading false information, and defaming respectable individuals.
- ANI
