The Delhi High Court delivered a verdict on Monday, rejecting a petition that sought to disqualify Prime Minister Narendra Modi from contesting elections for six years. The plea alleged a violation of the Model Code of Conduct or MCC during Modi’s recent speech in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, where he purportedly invoked “god and place of worship” to garner votes. However, the court deemed the plea without merit.
Justice Sachin Datta, presiding over the Bench, deemed the petition “thoroughly misconceived”, highlighting that the petitioner had prematurely approached the court before the Election Commission could address a similar representation.
“The petitioner presupposes that there has been a violation of MCC. This is completely unjustified. The plea being devoid of merits is dismissed,” stated the court in its order.
Recently, the Congress had lodged a complaint with the Election Commission against PM Modi regarding his remarks on Muslims made at a rally in Rajasthan.
“Earlier, when their (Congress) Government was in power, they had said Muslims have the first right on the country’s assets. This means to whom will this property be distributed? It will be distributed among those who have more children. It will be distributed to the infiltrators. Should your hard-earned money go to the infiltrators? Do you approve of this?” PM Modi had stated.
In response, the Election Commission intervened, directing BJP president JP Nadda to ensure that all star campaigners maintain the highest level of discourse expected from them.
As the Lok Sabha elections progress, with the third phase scheduled for May 7, the verdict from the Delhi High Court adds a significant legal development to the electoral scenario. The counting of votes is slated for June 4.
