Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending NDA allies’ massive public meeting in Chilukaluripet of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, has led to political uproar with the objections raised by the opposition over utilization of an Indian Air Force helicopter to transport him to the public meeting venue.
Trinamool Congress MP Saket Gokhale has formally lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging a violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by the Prime Minister. He argues that MCC explicitly prohibits the use of government machinery in election campaigns.
According to him there is a ban on using government machinery for propaganda. Indira Gandhi was disqualified in 1975 especially for this reason. Gokhale said that if the BJP paid for the IAF helicopter rent, the EC should explain why the IAF helicopter had to be used.
He said that on the occasion of the release of the election schedule, the EC has announced that strict action will be taken against those who violate the election code of conduct. It remains to be seen whether the EC will investigate or take action against PM Modi for using an IAF helicopter for the election campaign, TMC MP said.
In another post, he said that he approached the EC instead of the Supreme Court as courts are not allowed to interfere in election matters. It has been clarified that the EC has to take action on this issue.
In a 2014 notification, the ECI allowed the use of government vehicles for the Special Security Force (SPG), a user said in X. Gokhale responded to this post. Gokhale stated that there is an exception for the use of official bullet-proof vehicles, Kanwar vehicles (jammer cars) and not for the use of IAF helicopters for security reasons.
In an era where every action is scrutinized and debated, the ECI’s decision will not only reflect the current political landscape but also establish a precedent for future conduct. With Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar’s affirmation of a more stringent approach to MCC violations, both the political fraternity and the public eagerly await the ECI’s course of action.
