Complaint against PM Modi over poll code violation; 700 eminent citizens move EC

A complaint has been filed against Narendra Modi alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct during the ongoing Assembly elections, with nearly 700 eminent citizens approaching the Election Commission of India seeking an inquiry. The complaint relates to the Prime Minister’s address to the nation last Friday via public broadcasters, during a period when the poll code is in force across multiple states. The signatories have urged the Commission to examine the matter in detail and take appropriate action if violations are established.

The controversy stems from the timing and platform of the Prime Minister’s speech, which was delivered through All India Radio and Doordarshan. Petitioners have argued that using state-run media during elections may provide undue advantage and influence voters, which could amount to a breach of electoral guidelines. They have also raised concerns about the broadcast being aired on Sansad TV, questioning whether such platforms should be used for political messaging during the election period.

In his address, the Prime Minister explained the government’s position on the failure to pass the Women’s Reservation Bill and sharply criticised opposition parties, including the Congress, accusing them of obstructing efforts to ensure reservation for women. He also used strong language to attack the opposition’s stance, which has further intensified the debate around the intent and impact of the speech during elections.

The petition has also drawn attention to the fact that the Model Code of Conduct is currently in effect in states including Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry, where elections are underway. According to the complainants, this period requires strict neutrality from both government and political actors, especially in communication through official channels. Several opposition leaders, including Mamata Banerjee and M. K. Stalin, had earlier raised similar allegations regarding the address.

While the Election Commission has not yet issued a formal response, government sources have indicated that the speech was communicated to the Commission in advance and was cleared after due consideration. However, no official confirmation of such approval has been publicly disclosed. Among the signatories are prominent figures such as Najeeb Jung, Yogendra Yadav, Jayati Ghosh, T. M. Krishna, Harsh Mander, and Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, along with several academics, lawyers, and civil society members.