Assam: Election Commission Issues Notice to Assam CM for Alleged Campaign Violations

GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) recently took action in response to a complaint filed by the Congress party, issuing a show cause notice to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The notice was served due to alleged violations of the model code of conduct by Sarma during his campaigning in Chhattisgarh ahead of the state's upcoming elections. Sarma has until 5 pm on October 30 to provide a response.

Chhattisgarh is gearing up for elections to its 90-member state assembly, scheduled to take place in two phases on November 7 and November 17. The Congress party's complaint to the ECI implicated Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam CM Sarma for their campaign remarks that were believed to infringe upon the model code of conduct.

During a campaign speech in Kawardha, Chhattisgarh, on October 18, Himanta Biswa Sarma found himself at the center of a controversy when he made comments directed at Congress candidate Mohammad Akbar. Sarma's statement, which sparked outrage, included the words, "If one Akbar comes to some place, he calls 100 Akbars. So, send him off as soon as possible, otherwise the land of Mata Kaushalya will get defiled."

The Election Commission's notice specifically pointed out that Himanta Biswa Sarma had violated the model code of conduct, which came into effect on October 9. In doing so, the ECI referenced a provision within the code that states, "no party or candidate shall engage in any activity that may exacerbate existing differences or create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes, communities, religions, or linguistic groups."

This development highlights the importance of maintaining a fair and respectful electoral environment in India. As the Chhattisgarh elections draw near, the ECI's action against the Assam Chief Minister and the BJP underscores the need for politicians to adhere to the model code of conduct, ensuring that campaigns are conducted in a manner that promotes harmony and unity, rather than sowing division.

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