‘Tactics to Malign’: Election Commission Responds to AAP’s Allegations of Bias in Delhi Polls
As Delhi braces for the assembly elections, the political atmosphere has heated up with accusations flying between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Election Commission of India (ECI). The Election Commission has responded to AAP’s claims of bias with a strong statement, accusing the party of using “repeated pressure tactics” to undermine the credibility of the election process.
The Election Commission’s Stance:
On the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the ECI stated that it has been observing the AAP’s moves but has chosen to handle these accusations with “restraint, absorbing such outbursts with sagacity, stoicism.” This reflects the commission’s commitment to not being swayed by political insinuations, especially in the critical days leading up to the polls. The ECI emphasized that it would maintain its independence and integrity, regardless of the political pressure.
ALSO READ | Last-Minute Drama in Delhi: Cases Against CM Atishi and BJP’s Nephew Before Polls
AAP’s Allegations:
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal have openly criticized the ECI, questioning its impartiality. Atishi pointed out specific instances where she believed the ECI was turning a blind eye to violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri’s family. She tweeted, “The Election Commission is unbelievable. Ramesh Bidhuri’s family members are openly flouting the model code of conduct and there is no action. I complained to police and the Election Commission and they registered a case against me.”
Arvind Kejriwal went further, alleging that there is now an “official stand” by both the Delhi Police and the Election Commission to support BJP’s “hooliganism” against AAP. He stated, “If anyone stops them, they will be charged under a case of obstructing work,” indicating a perceived conspiracy against his party.
This back-and-forth between the ECI and AAP adds a layer of tension to the already charged political environment in Delhi. With elections just around the corner, these exchanges could influence voter perception, particularly regarding the fairness of the electoral process. The accusations from AAP suggest a strategic attempt to appeal to voters by framing themselves as victims of political vendetta, while the ECI’s response aims to reassure the public of its commitment to a fair election.
The situation has sparked discussions across political lines. While some see AAP’s allegations as a typical pre-election strategy to gain sympathy, others are concerned about the integrity of the electoral body. The debate also touches on broader issues of how election commissions in democracies manage political pressure while ensuring free and fair elections.
As Delhi moves towards election day, the controversy between AAP and the Election Commission underscores the challenges of maintaining an unbiased electoral process amidst political warfare. The outcome of this verbal tussle will likely influence not just the immediate election results but also the trust in the electoral mechanisms of one of the world’s largest democracies.
