As custodians of democracy, it is imperative for institutions like the Election Commission of India (ECI) to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process, ensuring fair and transparent elections. However, regrettably, during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, the ECI has failed to fulfill its constitutional duty, emerging as a mute spectator to multiple violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and Representation of the People Act (RPA). This lapse undermines the very foundation of our democratic principles and warrants immediate attention.
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC), a set of guidelines issued by the ECI, serves as the cornerstone of free and fair elections, promoting a level playing field for all political parties. It prohibits activities that could unfairly influence voters or disturb the electoral environment. However, despite these clear directives, there have been numerous instances where political parties and candidates have brazenly flouted the MCC, indulging in activities such as hate speech, distribution of cash and gifts, and spreading misinformation.
Furthermore, the Representation of the People Act (RPA), which outlines the legal framework for elections in India, lays down stringent rules to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. Violations of this act, including bribery, undue influence, and corrupt practices, are grave offenses that strike at the heart of democracy. Yet, the ECI’s inaction in addressing these violations effectively undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in the electoral process.
The Law and Policy Research Institute (LAPRI) has taken cognizance of these violations and has filed 28 complaints with the Election Commission of India and various Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of different states. LAPRI remains committed to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and will continue to monitor and report violations of the MCC and RPA. We will keep a vigilant watch on all such infractions and will persist in filing complaints until the ECI wakes up and performs its duty.
Should the Election Commission of India fail to take appropriate action to address these violations, LAPRI is prepared to pursue legal recourse. We will not hesitate to seek redressal in the courts of law to uphold the constitutional principles of free and fair elections and to safeguard the democratic rights of all citizens.
In light of these concerns, we call upon the Election Commission of India to urgently review its enforcement mechanisms and take concrete steps to ensure the integrity of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. This includes swift and decisive action against those found guilty of violating the MCC and RPA, as well as strengthening preventive measures to deter future transgressions.
As citizens committed to the ideals of democracy, we demand nothing less than the strict adherence to constitutional principles and the preservation of the integrity of our electoral process. Anything short of this would be a betrayal of the trust reposed in the Election Commission of India and a grave disservice to the democratic aspirations of the Indian people, above mentioned statements were released at the press meet held at press club of Bengaluru.
B.T Venkatesh Murutza Ali Baig Zia Nomani Khizere alam were present in the press meet.
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