In a move with implications for fair play in the upcoming assembly polls in Telangana, the Election Commission has intervened by banning advertisements from Karnataka’s Congress government in Telangana dailies. This decision follows complaints filed by both the BJP and the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (TRS), raising concerns about potential violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
The Election Commission’s notice, issued to the Principal Secretary of the Karnataka government, demands a response by 5 pm the following day. The Commission seeks clarification on why action should not be taken against the Information Department officer concerning the Model Code of Conduct in force in Telangana.
Allegations by the BJP and the TRS, vying for a foothold in Telangana’s political landscape, accuse the Congress of misusing public funds to influence electoral outcomes. The Congress, having secured victory in Karnataka’s assembly election earlier this year, faces scrutiny over its advertising strategies in neighboring Telangana.
This move by the Election Commission marks another instance of regulatory intervention ahead of the Telangana assembly polls. Over the weekend, the Commission withdrew permission for the Telangana government’s financial aid program for farmers under the Rythu Bandhu Scheme, citing a violation of the Model Code following a public announcement by a state minister.
The Commission’s directive stated, “There shall be no disbursement under the Scheme till the Model Code of Conduct in the State of Telangana ceases to apply in all its forms.” This decision, aimed at ensuring a level playing field, dealt a blow to the Bharat Rashtra Samithi’s hopes for a third consecutive term in India’s youngest state.
The looming assembly elections in Telangana, scheduled for Thursday, have drawn significant attention, especially amid the concurrent counting of votes from four other states on Sunday, December 3. The Election Commission’s actions underscore its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring a fair and unbiased environment for voters and political parties alike.
Sources By Agencies