Election Commission Takes Firm Stand Against ‘Viksit Bharat’ Messages Amid Electoral Integrity Concerns
In a significant move to uphold the model code of conduct, the Election Commission has instructed the Union government to immediately cease the dissemination of ‘Viksit Bharat’ messages via WhatsApp. This directive follows numerous complaints lodged with the poll panel regarding potential violations of electoral regulations. ‘Viksit Bharat’ Messages
The Election Commission’s action underscores its commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections, particularly in light of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled between April 19 and June 1. With the model code of conduct coming into effect immediately after the announcement of election dates, any communication that could influence voters must adhere to strict guidelines to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
The ‘Viksit Bharat’ messages, which contain a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighting government policies and soliciting feedback, have come under scrutiny for their timing and potential influence on voters. Despite claims by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) that these messages were dispatched before the implementation of the model code of conduct, the Election Commission has deemed it necessary to halt their distribution to prevent any perceived violations.
This development reflects the Election Commission’s proactive stance in combating any activities that could compromise the fairness of elections. By directing the Centre to cease the transmission of ‘Viksit Bharat’ messages and requesting a compliance report from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Commission aims to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure a level playing field for all political parties.
The Election Commission’s vigilant approach is evident in its recent directives to electoral officials to take action against derogatory remarks made by political figures and to remove unauthorized political advertisements. These efforts align with Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar’s assertion that the Commission will spare no effort in addressing challenges such as misinformation, misuse of resources, and model code of conduct violations.
As India prepares for the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission’s actions underscore the importance of upholding electoral integrity and ensuring that the democratic process remains free from undue influence and manipulation. ‘Viksit Bharat’ messages
