Congress pushes back at EC Notice to Kharge, seeks more time amid poll tensions

The Indian National Congress challenged the Election Commission’s notice to its chief. Then, it sought more time to respond, citing campaign pressure and procedural concerns. As a result, a fresh political row unfolded during an active election cycle.

On Wednesday, the Election Commission of India issued a show-cause notice to Mallikarjun Kharge. It flagged his remarks about Narendra Modi during a rally in Chennai. The Commission said the comment appeared to breach the Model Code of Conduct.

Soon after, Kharge defended his statement. He clarified that he referred to what he called “terrorising” of democratic institutions, not a literal accusation. Meanwhile, Congress leaders moved quickly to respond to the notice.

Next, party spokesperson Jairam Ramesh wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He pointed out discrepancies in the notice. He said two versions carried the same file number but named different complainants. He argued that this raised questions about the process.

At the same time, Ramesh criticised the 24-hour deadline. He said Kharge remained busy with multiple campaigns. He requested one week to file a detailed reply. He also asked for a senior Congress delegation to present its case in person.

On the ground, party workers in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal reacted sharply. In Chennai, Congress volunteers said the notice came at a sensitive moment in campaigning. In Kolkata, some leaders alleged selective action by authorities. They claimed that complaints against the BJP did not receive equal attention.

Congress cited two examples to support its charge. First, it flagged Modi’s national address after a failed constitutional amendment. It said the speech targeted the opposition during an election period. Second, it pointed to a post by Amit Shah that listed welfare promises. The party argued that such announcements could influence voters and breach election rules.

The Bharatiya Janata Party stepped up its attack. A delegation led by Kiren Rijiju, Nirmala Sitharaman, and Arjun Ram Meghwal met the Commission. They demanded strict action and a public apology from Kharge. BJP leaders said the remark crossed limits of political discourse.

Looking back, election seasons in India often trigger sharp exchanges between rivals. The Model Code of Conduct aims to keep campaigns fair and civil. However, parties frequently accuse each other of violations and bias.

Now, the focus shifts to the Commission’s next move. It must review Congress’s request and decide on further action. At the same time, both parties continue aggressive campaigning as key phases approach.

The dispute highlights rising tensions in the run-up to polls. It also raises questions about process, fairness, and political language. As campaigns intensify, such clashes may shape the tone of the election narrative.