“Can’t Campaign During Silent Period”: Congress Complains To Election Commission On Modi’s Kanyakumari Meditation Plan
Congress leaders met with the Election Commission today, raising several issues of concern, most notably Prime Minister Narendra Modi“s planned visit to Kanyakumari. The Congress party argued that this visit, scheduled from May 30 to June 1, coincides with the silent period preceding the last phase of elections in India, set for June 1.
The Congress asserted that no leader should campaign, directly or indirectly, during this silent period. They pointed out that Modi”s announcement of a silent fast starting from the evening of May 30 is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. “We have told the Election Commission in our complaint that no leader can campaign directly or indirectly during the silent period,” a Congress representative stated. The party believes this announcement, made just before the silent period begins, undermines the fairness of the electoral process.
In addition to this primary complaint, the Congress also addressed other concerns. They highlighted a vulgar and objectionable advertisement being circulated from the official social media handles of the BJP, urging the Election Commission to take necessary action. Furthermore, the Congress complained about a doctored video of Rahul Gandhi and called for action regarding a statement made by Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The Prime Minister”s visit to Kanyakumari is framed as a spiritual journey, where he plans to pay homage at the Rock Memorial and meditate at the Dhyan Mandapam, a site associated with Swami Vivekananda. Modi’s past election campaign closures have similarly included spiritual retreats, such as visits to Kedarnath in 2019 and Shivaji’s Pratapgarh in 2014.
Despite these assurances, the Congress remains concerned that Modi”s presence and activities during the silent period may indirectly influence voters. The party has urged the Election Commission to enforce the Model Code of Conduct strictly to ensure a fair and unbiased election process.
What is the 48 Hours of Silence Period?
The 48-hour silence period refers to the final 48 hours before the conclusion of polling in any election, during which specific activities to election campaigning are strictly prohibited. This period is designed to provide voters with a peaceful environment to make their final decisions without the influence of last-minute campaign activities.
Legal Basis
The prohibition is mandated under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. This section outlines the activities that are forbidden during the silence period and stipulates penalties for violations.
Prohibited Activities
During the 48-hour silence period, the following activities are prohibited:
- Public Meetings and Processions: No person is allowed to convene, hold, attend, join, or address any public meeting or procession in connection with an election.
- Display of Election Matter: Displaying any election- content to the public through cinematograph, television, or similar means is banned.
- Public Entertainment: Holding or arranging musical concerts, theatrical performances, or other forms of entertainment that can propagate election matters to the public is not allowed.
These restrictions apply specifically in the polling area where the election is taking place, starting 48 hours before the polls close.
Penalties for Violation
Anyone found contravening these rules can face legal consequences, including:
- Imprisonment for up to two years
- A fine
- Both imprisonment and a fine
Definition of “Election Matter”
Under this section, “election matter” refers to any content intended or likely to influence or affect the result of the election.
Purpose of the Silence Period
The primary aim of the silence period is to:
- Ensure a tranquil and orderly environment for voters to reflect on their choices.
- Prevent any undue influence or pressure from campaign activities immediately before voting.
- Maintain the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.
