Ensure PM’s Kanyakumari trip doesn’t violate model code, Congress tells EC; TMC raises concern, too

Speaking to mediapersons after submitting the complaint, Singhvi said, “We told the ECI that no one is allowed to campaign directly or indirectly during the silence period. We have no issue with some person or leader doing anything… someone observing a vow of silence. But there should be no indirect campaigning during the silence period. The honourable prime minister has announced that he will go on a silence vow from May 30 evening… you know that the period of silence starts from May 30 morning 7 am, and it will continue till June 1.”

“These are ways that you are campaigning or are broadcasting yourself through channels and print media. We have kept two very simple points before the ECI. Either the PM starts this 24-48 hours later. After June 1 evening, he can do it. And if he insists that he will start it tomorrow then, it is necessary that a ban is imposed on its broadcasting on print and visual media. He is himself a candidate in the last phase. This kind of broadcast should not be allowed,” said Singhvi.

Modi is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi which will go to polls on June 1.

Meanwhile, the TMC also raised the issue and said, “In case the BJP forgot, MCC stands for Model Code of Conduct and not Modi’s Code of Conduct! Smt Mamata Banerjee’s declaration is clear: any attempt to broadcast PM Modi’s meditation on television will be met with swift and decisive action, as it blatantly violates the MCC!”

The Congress delegation also raised with the EC the issues of “indecent ads” allegedly being published by ‘BJP for India’ official handles, and use of “doctored” videos on social media.