'Undesirable public utterances', EC issues general advisory reminding parties of model code

Taking note of the several cases of hate speeches by political leaders during the Delhi assembly election campaign, the Election Commission of India has issued a 'general advisory' reminding political parties of the various provisions of the model code of conduct. Notably, EC has ordered the removal of Union minister Anurag Thakur and BJP MP Pravesh Verma from the list of BJP's star campaigners list for their controversial remarks.

New Delhi: Citing "several instances of undesirable public utterances" by political leaders during Delhi assembly election campaign, the Election Commission on Wednesday reminded parties of various provisions of the model code, including the one which bars politicians from indulging in activities that can create mutual hatred.

The 'general advisory' issued by the poll panel also said criticism of other parties or their work based on unverified allegations should be avoided.

It said the use of religious places such as temples, mosques, churches or gurudwaras should not be used for propaganda by political parties and their candidates.

Any action or deed that can be construed as being repugnant to the dignity of women should be avoided by parties and candidates.

The advisory comes against the backdrop of controversial remarks by Union minister Anurag Thakur and BJP MP Pravesh Verma during campaigning. While EC has ordered that the two be removed from the list of BJP's star campaigners list, they have also been issued show-cause notices for their comments.

The EC had last week barred BJP candidate Kapil Mishra from campaigning for 48 hours for his inflammatory tweets.

With inputs from PTI