Namo TV is BJP's advertising channel, other parties can also do such experiments: Political Expert

NaMo TV made its debut on March 31 on DTH platforms and created a stir among political parties regarding the content it aired. For most parties, NaMo TV is a propaganda tool for Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the Lok Sabha election and is in violation of the model code of conduct.

New Delhi: A new channel dedicated to showing the rallies and speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had created a storm as the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party complained to the Election Commission of India about it on Monday. The Election Commission issued a notice seeking a report from the I&B Ministry on NaMo TV.

Talking to ETV Bharat in this regard, Political Expert Suresh Bafna said, "Namo TV is just BJP's advertising channel, which will be stopped after the election is over."

"I don't think a party-sponsored TV channel broadcasting the party’s Unique Selling Point violate the model code of conduct. The whole point of an election campaign is that different parties try their level best to influence the voters in their own favour. If some parties are able to mobilise a larger number of people to their rallies than other parties, can the parties that put up smaller rallies complain to the Election Commission about it terming it as the violation of model code of conduct?" he said.

Expressing his views on the guidelines given by the Election Commission, he stated, "Political parties do not follow the guidelines seriously and violate the Code of Conduct upon which the EC can stop them from contesting elections."

"The Commission has the authority to supervise political parties and candidates and take appropriate action in case of violations. In case, a candidate is found guilty of dishonest practices during the elections, the Supreme Court and High Courts consult the Commission."

The Model Code of Conduct came into force on March 10, after the Election Commission announced the dates for the Lok Sabha Elections 2019.