The Election Commission of India (EC) on Sunday directed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s Jharkhand unit to remove a video from its social media platforms, following complaints from the Congress and the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). The two parties alleged that the video was “misleading and malicious,” aiming to create division and influence voters during the ongoing assembly elections in Jharkhand.
In response to the complaints, the EC sought an explanation from the BJP’s Jharkhand unit for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by posting the contentious video. The EC has instructed the state’s chief electoral officer to act swiftly, removing the posts from social media in coordination with the relevant authorities under the IT Act.
The complaint accused the video of spreading “baseless allegations and falsehoods” designed to sow hatred and enmity towards the JMM and its leaders. The video is alleged to have been part of a broader effort to unduly sway voter sentiment ahead of the second phase of voting on November 20.
As per the latest election schedule, Jharkhand’s assembly polls are taking place in multiple phases, with the first phase already held on November 13. Vote counting is set for November 23.
EC Sends Notices to BJP and Congress Leaders
In a related development, the Election Commission has issued notices to BJP President JP Nadda and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. The notices come in response to separate complaints filed by the BJP and Congress during the ongoing elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra.
The Congress had filed two complaints against Nadda on November 13, while the BJP’s complaint against Kharge prompted the EC’s action. Both party leaders have been asked to submit formal responses by 1 PM on Monday, November 18.
The EC has reminded both leaders of its earlier advisory to maintain public decorum and ensure compliance with the model code of conduct, especially regarding the behavior of star campaigners and senior leaders. The poll body emphasized that the principles of the code should be followed in both letter and spirit during the campaign period.
As the election process continues, the Election Commission is closely monitoring compliance with its guidelines to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
