The Election Commission issued a show-cause notice to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his recent comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The notice cited the Model Code of Conduct, which prohibits unverified allegations against political rivals. In response to a representation from the BJP, the EC reminded Gandhi that his remarks fell within the prohibition of section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, dealing with corrupt practices.
Gandhi’s comments, including calling the Prime Minister “panauti” and “pickpocket,” were made at recent rallies in Rajasthan. The BJP had asserted that Gandhi’s claim of granting waivers to industrialists of Rs 14,00,000 crore over the last nine years was not supported by facts.
The notice also cited a general advisory from the EC about the declining level of political discourse during electioneering. Furthermore, the commission reminded Gandhi of a Supreme Court observation regarding the balance between freedom of speech and the right to reputation.
The notice requested Gandhi to provide an explanation for his remarks and show cause as to why action for the alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct and relevant penal provisions should not be initiated. The Congress leader was asked to respond by 6.00 pm on November 25, with the threat of action by the commission if no reply was received by then.
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