The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued an advisory to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi cautioning him about his comments regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This comes in the aftermath of Gandhi's recent "panuti" (bad omen) and "pickpocket" jibes directed at PM Modi, as reported by sources to news agency PTI.
The ECI, taking into account all relevant facts, including a Delhi High Court order and Gandhi's response, has advised him to exercise greater care and caution in his future public utterances.
The advisory, dated March 1, emphasized that parties, candidates, and star campaigners would face strict action, rather than mere 'moral censure,' for any violations of the Model Code of Conduct. The EC also highlighted that star campaigners and candidates previously served notices would face stern action for repeated model code violations.
Last year, the EC had issued a notice to Rahul Gandhi after he used terms like "panauti" and "pickpocket" for the Prime Minister. The "pickpocket" comment was made during a poll speech ahead of the Rajasthan election, where Gandhi alleged that while the attention of the public was diverted, industrialist Gautam Adani was metaphorically picking their pockets.
Following this incident, the EC issued a show cause notice to Gandhi over his comments and sought a response. The Delhi High Court also urged the EC on December 21 to decide on the notice issued to Gandhi, stating that the comments made by the Congress leader in November 2023 were "not in good taste."
"After considering all facts related to remarks such as 'jebkatra' (pickpocket) and 'panauti,' including the court order and Gandhi's reply, the Election Commission has advised Gandhi to be more careful and cautious in the future," stated a source to PTI.
The show cause notice to Gandhi had highlighted that the term "panauti" is prohibited under section 123(2) of the Representation of People Act, dealing with corrupt practices. It also cited the model code of conduct, urging parties and candidates to avoid criticism based on unverified allegations or distortion.