Election commission issues notice to Rahul Gandhi for 'Panauti' comments on PM Modi

The Election Commission has issued a notice to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following a complaint filed by the BJP regarding his "Panauti" (bad omen) comments directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The notice requires Rahul Gandhi to provide an explanation for his remarks, alleged to be in violation of the Model Code of Conduct, by Saturday evening. The BJP's complaint also accused Mr. Gandhi of using derogatory terms and making unverified allegations during his campaign in Rajasthan, where assembly elections are scheduled for Saturday.

During a rally in Rajasthan on Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi accused PM Modi of diverting attention from critical election issues, using the term "Panauti Modi" to criticize the Prime Minister's presence at the World Cup finals where India faced defeat against Australia. The Election Commission's notice emphasizes that the Model Code of Conduct prohibits leaders from making unverified allegations against political rivals.

The BJP, reacting strongly to Rahul Gandhi's comments, demanded an apology, with senior leaders condemning the remarks as "shameful" and "desperate." This incident adds to the history of political clashes between Rahul Gandhi and the BJP, with the Congress leader previously facing temporary suspension from parliament over similar remarks.