Lok Sabha elections: Assam CEO issues notice to Congress over 'MCC violation'

GUWAHATI: The chief electoral officer (CEO) of Assam has issued a notice to the Congress party in response to allegations of violating the model code of conduct (MCC) raised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

A complaint filed by the BJP accused the Congress of distributing “guarantee cards” door-to-door in Assam, allegedly breaching MCC regulations.

In reaction, the CEO sent a show-cause notice to Assam Congress president Bhupen Kumar Borah, asking for a response by 2 pm on April 11.

The notice pointed out that a preliminary examination indicated that the “guarantee cards”, featuring the symbols and images of the Congress’s star campaigners, potentially violated MCC guidelines.

The BJP’s complaint asserted that the “guarantee cards” promised Rs one lakh to each educated youth in the first year and an annual sum of Rs one lakh to one female member of every impoverished family, without disclosing the funding source.

Also read: Assam CM emphasises social transformation beyond electoral considerations

The CEO emphasized that the card's form collected personal details, raising concerns about the nature of the gathered personally identifiable information.

Additionally, the Assam CEO cautioned that while electoral promises were permissible, distributing forms and collecting data could be seen as inducements to voters, which are prohibited under the MCC.

The CEO highlighted the importance of manifestos outlining the rationale behind promises and indicating methods to meet financial obligations, ensuring voters' trust is placed only in feasible commitments.

Based on initial observations, the Assam CEO deemed the 'guarantee cards' to contravene the MCC, leading to the issuance of the notice.

The Assam Congress was instructed to provide a written explanation as to why appropriate action should not be taken against the party and its leaders.

Also read: SC dismisses case challenging 2021 Assam Assembly Election of AIUDF leader Barbhuiya

Previously, the BJP received a similar notice from the Assam CEO following allegations by the CPI-M regarding data collection practices purportedly violating the MCC.

The Left party accused the BJP of gathering voter data under the guise of a socio-economic survey to benefit government schemes.

Furthermore, the Assam Congress lodged a written complaint with the CEO's office against the BJP regarding the same issue.