The Election Commission of India (ECI) took action by issuing a show cause notice to Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Congress party, regarding his remarks referring to Prime Minister Modi as 'Jaibkatra' (Pickpocket) and 'Pannauti' during an election rally.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) submitted a complaint to the ECI on November 22, citing derogatory language used by Rahul Gandhi against PM Modi in his campaign speeches. The ECI's decision to issue the notice comes in response to the formal complaint lodged by the BJP.

"Whereas, a complaint has been received from the BJP (copy enclosed) alleging that you, on 22nd November 2023 in a public meeting at Bayatu, District Barmer, Rajasthan made wild allegations and spoke in a derisive and obnoxious manner about the Prime Minister. It is alleged that comparing a PM to a "Jaibkatra" (pickpocket) and using the word "Pannauti" is unbecoming of a very senior leader of a National Political Party. Further, the allegation of grant of waivers of Rs. 14,00,000 crores for the past 9 years, is asserted by the BJP, as not borne out on facts," the ECI letter to Rahul Gandhi said.

"Furthermore, they are allegedly in violation of Section 123 (4) of the R.P. Act, Section 1710, 504, 505 (2), and 499 of the IPC, and provisions of the Model Code of Conduct." It added.

During a rally in Barmer, Rahul Gandhi asserted that the reason for India's loss in the World Cup final was Prime Minister Narendra Modi's presence at the Narendra Modi stadium. "Our guys were playing well, they would have won the world cup. But 'Panauti made us lose. The TV guys won't tell you this but people know," Rahul said while campaigning at Rajasthan's Barmer.

During his campaign in Rajasthan's Barmer, Rahul Gandhi commented, "Our guys were playing well, they would have won the World Cup. But 'Panauti' made us lose. The TV guys won't tell you this but people know." In response to this, the Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a show-cause notice to Rahul Gandhi, asking him to explain why action should not be taken against him in this matter. The deadline for his response is set for November 25. The notice comes after a complaint filed by the BJP on November 22, alleging derogatory remarks made by Rahul Gandhi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during election rallies.

"Accordingly, you are requested to provide your explanation, on the allegation made and to show causes as to why action as deemed fit for alleged violation of MCC and relevant penal provisions is not initiated by the Commission. Your reply, if any, be reached by 18.00 hrs. of November 25, 2023. If no reply is received by then action deemed fit will be taken by the Commission," the letter said.

The BJP in its complaint to ECI asked to take appropriate action against the Congress leader. "It will spoil the electoral environment, where abusing, usage of objectionable and offensive language to defame respectable individuals and spreading false news will become inevitable," BJP said.

Image source: ANI