Significance of the ECI:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a crucial institution for the democratic process.
It should not operate without sufficient oversight and support due to its importance.
Recent Directives by the ECI:
The ECI has instructed the BJP and Congress to avoid divisive issues in their election campaigns.
This directive is seen as a delayed but necessary action.
Past Performance of the ECI:
The ECI has recently been criticized for failing to be effective, impartial, and prompt.
These shortcomings have disappointed the Indian electorate.
Partisan Appointment of ECI Members:
The mechanism for appointing ECI members is a partisan decision made by the executive branch.
This has contributed to the ECI’s perceived ineffectiveness.
Specific Actions Against BJP:
The ECI wrote to BJP President J.P. Nadda, asking party "star campaigners" to avoid divisive statements.
This followed a complaint against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his speech in Banswara, Rajasthan, where he made controversial remarks about Muslims.
Specific Actions Against Congress:
The ECI also wrote to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, asking his party’s star campaigners to avoid statements that could cause caste and community tensions.
Recent Rebukes and Censures:
The ECI censured former Calcutta High Court judge and BJP candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay for remarks against Mamata Banerjee, barring him from campaigning for 24 hours.
The ECI has previously acted against several leaders from different parties for similar issues.
Pending Complaints:
Complaints against U.P. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for alleged violations of the model code of conduct (MCC) are pending.
Perceived Impartiality and Issues:
The ECI’s actions may appear impartial, but this is not sufficient.
There is a false equivalence being drawn between legitimate policy debates and incitements of xenophobia.
Role of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC):
The MCC should not be used to suppress political debates and disagreements.
It should address the misuse of power and creation of disharmony separately.
Need for Reinforcing ECI's Independence:
The integrity and credibility of the ECI are vital for the legitimacy of elections.
Reinforcing its independence should be a priority for political parties, the judiciary, and other stakeholders in Indian democracy.
Conclusion:
Given its crucial role, the ECI is too important to be left to operate without adequate oversight and support.
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