In response to concerning trends of declining political campaign discourse observed in recent elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a comprehensive advisory urging all political parties to maintain decorum and elevate the level of public discourse to focus on issue-based debates.
The advisory, directed at political parties, candidates, and star campaigners, emphasizes the need to uphold the principles of democracy and maintain a level playing field during electoral processes. It highlights the following key points:
Restraint in Appeal: Political appeals based on caste, communal feelings, or activities that may exacerbate existing differences among communities are strictly prohibited.
Factual Basis: Parties and leaders are cautioned against making false statements or utterances aimed at misleading voters. Criticism of opponents should be based on verified facts and avoid distortions.
Respect for Privacy: Criticism of opponents should be limited to their public activities, refraining from personal attacks or comments on private matters.
Religious Institutions: Election propaganda or campaigning in places of worship is prohibited. References ridiculing the relationship between devotees and deities are also discouraged.
Dignity of Women: Parties and candidates are urged to refrain from actions or utterances that undermine the honor and dignity of women.
Media Ethics: Unverified or misleading advertisements in the media, as well as advertisements masquerading as news items, are strictly prohibited.
Social Media Conduct: Social media posts vilifying or insulting rivals, as well as posts below dignity or in bad taste, are not permitted.
The Commission stresses that any violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) or attempts to manipulate the election process will be met with stern action. It further outlines specific genres of indirect or surrogate MCC violations observed in previous elections, including the use of inappropriate language, dissemination of false allegations, personal attacks, and misleading advertisements.
The advisory also addresses the role of “star campaigners” designated under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, emphasizing their responsibility to uphold ethical standards during campaign rallies. The Election Commission urges all stakeholders to adhere to the guidelines outlined in the advisory, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity and dignity of the electoral process.
