EC Issues Show Cause to Kharge Over ‘Terrorist’ Remark in Chennai Campaign
EC Issues Show Cause to Kharge Over ‘Terrorist’ Remark in Chennai Campaign
Election Commission issues show-cause to Congress chief Kharge for calling PM Modi a terrorist during a Chennai press conference amid Tamil Nadu campaigning.
The Election Commission on Wednesday issued a show-cause notice to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge after he described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a terrorist during a Chennai press conference on the final day of campaigning in Tamil Nadu. The commission said Kharge's remarks prima facie violated the model code of conduct and gave him 24 hours to explain his stand. If there is no response within that period, the EC stated that it will take appropriate action or decision without any further reference.
Kharge’s remarks came as he challenged the AIADMK-BJP alliance, accusing them of weakening democracy and criticizing the alignment with Modi. He later defended himself by saying his words were aimed at Modi’s approach—specifically, that Modi was terrorising the democratic fabric of the country—rather than labeling the person personally. The clarification followed media coverage of his comments during the Tamil Nadu campaign, where political rhetoric has been intense and the MCC is under scrutiny as the elections draw near.
In response to the notice, Kharge signalled cooperation, reportedly saying the party would reply within the 24-hour window. The development has added a new flashpoint to the campaign in Tamil Nadu, highlighting the ongoing tension between opposition leaders and the ruling establishment as elections approach. The Election Commission’s action underscores the attention the MCC commands in this high-stakes phase of campaigning, where even strong language can prompt formal consequences.
Across the political spectrum, observers noted that formal action by the EC could influence how campaigns proceed in the remaining days, with parties weighing the line between forceful critique and conduct that complies with MCC guidelines. The Chennai events thus sit at the center of a broader national conversation about accountability, political rhetoric, and the mechanisms designed to keep elections fair.
