In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, a team from the Election Commission of India arrived in Guwahati, Assam, on March 6. Their agenda includes conducting meetings with officials and political parties to assess the security arrangements within the state.
Earlier, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma informed the media that the state government has requested the ECI to schedule the elections in Assam before the Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu celebration.
Meanwhile, in light of concerning trends observed in recent elections regarding the decline in the quality of political campaign discourse, the Election Commission of India has issued additional advisories to all political parties. They are urged to maintain decorum and exercise utmost restraint during public campaigning, elevating the discourse to focus on issues rather than engaging in personal attacks.
The Election Commission has put ‘Star Campaigners’ and candidates on notice regarding potential violations of the Model Code of Conduct, employing measures to prevent breaches during the Lok Sabha polls and the elections for four state Legislative Assemblies. Repeat offenses across all phases and geographical areas will be treated with greater scrutiny.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar recently stressed the importance of fostering ethical and respectful political discourse among political parties. He emphasized the need for campaigns that inspire unity and promote ideas rather than divisive rhetoric.
The Commission has called upon all political parties, their leaders, and contesting candidates to adhere strictly to the Model Code of Conduct and the legal framework. Any form of surrogate or indirect violation of the MCC and any attempt to escalate the level of election campaigning beyond acceptable norms will face severe action from the Commission.
Political party leaders designated as ‘star campaigners’ under Section 77 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, deliver speeches during significant political rallies. While enjoying the privileges granted by Section 77, it is crucial for star campaigners to uphold the highest ethical standards during election campaigns, ensuring harmony and purposeful construction within the framework of the Model Code of Conduct and statutory provisions of the Act.
