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The
Election Commission of India has taken a tough stance on
observance of model code of conduct. It has issued
instructions to politicians not to deliver such speeches
which may fan tension among various religions, castes etc
and spread hatred. Luring or bribing the electorate has
been included in the corrupt practices which would be
tantamount to crime. The Chief Election Commissioner has
given directives in this respect.
Political
parties and candidates have been told not to indulge in
any act which might lead to increase in differences among
various communities. The criticism of the rival parties
must be confined to their policies, programmes and style
of work only. There will be no comments on the personal
life of the rival candidates. No baseless allegations will
be levelled. No mention of caste or social affiliation
will be made to garner votes. Similarly, temples, mosques,
churches and other religious places cannot be used for
electioneering.
The
parties and candidates have been advised to avoid
indulging in corrupt practices including bribing or
alluring voters, campaigning within 100 metre area around
the polling booth on the voting day, holding public
meetings in the period of 48 hours before the polling and
ferrying voters to and from the polling booths.
It
has also been made clear that political parties and
candidates will respect the right of everyone to lead
peaceful and uninterrupted life even if they may be oppose
their views and deeds. No agitation can be staged in front
of the house of anyone. No one's land, wall, premises and
houses can be used for hoisting flags, fastening banners
or writing graffiti without his consent.
The
political parties have also been told not to interfere in
the public meetings or rallies of other parties. They must
also not take their rally from the area where a public
meeting of another party is in progress.
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