The Election Commission’s model code of conduct prohibits active campaigning including public meetings 48 hours before the start of actual polling. This silence period enables voters to enjoy a peaceful break to make an informed choice, away from the cacophony of campaigns. But hours before the start of voting, the CM of UP released a video urging, almost threatening, the electorate to choose BJP. In his address, he said that if the janata doesn’t vote for the saffron party, UP shall turn into another Bengal, Kashmir or Kerala. The CM’s message came a few hours after the PM’s interview to a private news channel was aired wherein he praised Yogi and his policies. The PM’s appeal to voters disguised as an ‘interview’ was itself a violation of the EC’s code of conduct. This is condemnable and sets an example for others to follow. Shame, utter shame!
