Karnataka Polls: EC Asks BJP To Provide ‘Verifiable, Traceable Facts’ Over 'Cong Most Corrupt' Advertisement

Congress made the complaint after the incumbent BJP published advertisements in newspapers describing the Congress as “the most corrupt party in the world.” 

EC issues notice to Karnataka BJP chief Nalin Kumar Kateel (left) over advertisements against Congress during poll campaigning.

Source : PTI File Photo

The Election Commission of India on Monday issued a notice to Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party president Nalin Kumar Kateel asking to provide “verifiable and traceable facts” on the basis of complaint by Congress. The grand old party made the complaint after the incumbent BJP published advertisements in newspapers describing the Congress as “the most corrupt party in the world.” 

In its notice to the saffron party, the poll body stated: “While general claims and accusations are part of election campaigns, specific allegations and claims about the opponents need to be supported by verifiable and traceable facts. Any claim made without basis and empirical evidence has the potential of misleading the voters thereby robbing them of their right of making right and informed choices amongst the candidate thus disturbing the level playing field.” 

#KarnatakaAssemblyElection2023 | Election Commission of India issues notice to Karnataka BJP president in the context of a complaint received from Congress that BJP published an advertisement on 8th May 2023 making some specific claims about the Congress party. pic.twitter.com/tBK2r9g4Vg

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

A similar notice was issued to the Congress as well for its "corruption rate card" advertisement where it issued posts and advertisements targeting the ruling BJP 

It alleged that the Karnataka Chief Minister's post was up for grabs for Rs 2500 crores and the rate of ministerial posts is Rs 500 crores. The image also features figures for "Appointment and Transfer Rates", "Job Rates", and alleged commission for government deals.

EC Issues Notice To Congress Over Sonia Gandhi's 'Karnataka Sovereignty' Remark

The Election Commission of India on Monday also issued a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge asking to provide clarification and take rectification measures over Sonia Gandhi's ‘Karnataka sovereignty’ remark.  

The Congress party on Saturday, after Sonia Gandhi's poll rally in Hubbali, tweeted, "CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity.

The party drew flak for its tweet from BJP who asked the poll body to derecognise the grand old party, adding that she is heading the 'tukde-tukde' gang