The Delhi High Court on Monday rejected a petition seeking the disqualification of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from contesting elections for six years, alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during his recent speech in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh. The court deemed the plea as lacking merit, stating that it was filed prematurely before the Election Commission had decided on a similar representation.
In its dismissal, the court described the petition as “thoroughly misconceived” and unjustified, emphasising that it presumed a violation of the MCC without sufficient grounds. Justice Sachin Datta, presiding over the bench, emphasised the premature nature of the plea in the absence of any established violation.
Meanwhile, the Congress had previously lodged a complaint with the Election Commission against Prime Minister Modi for his remarks regarding Muslims at a rally in Rajasthan. Modi’s statement about the Congress manifesto and its purported implications regarding asset distribution had sparked controversy.
The Election Commission, in response, issued a notice to BJP President JP Nadda, urging all-star campaigners to maintain a high level of discourse during campaigning.
As India gears up for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May 7, with vote counting set for June 4, the political landscape remains charged with debates and allegations amid the campaign fervour.
