Elections are often euphemistically referred to as ‘festivals of democracy.’ But in the world’s largest democracy, elections are turning out to be a fatuous exercise of demagoguery.
Political candidates issue veiled threats and blatantly intimidate people on the basis of religion and caste, brushing aside the model code of conduct laid down by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Hate speech is their magic mantra for seeking votes. Promoting religious hatred and enmity among communities is their mandate.
Look at what Maneka Gandhi, the BJP’s Candidate from Uttar Pradesh’s Sultanpur Parliamentary constituency, said as part of her campaign:
When a Muslim comes to me for some work, I am inclined not to work. After all, jobs are also a deal. We are not the children of Mahatma Gandhi…when the results from your polling booth come and see only 50 or 100 votes in my favour, then I will also treat you in the same manner when you come to me for work.
Here’s a Member of Parliament who serves in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet as the Union Minister for Women and Child Development, publicly vowing to discriminate against Muslims if they don’t vote for her. Her speech violates the Model Code of Conduct set by the Election Commission of India and also Section 123 (3) of the Representation of the People’s Act.
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