Is PM Modi's meditation break at Kanniyakumari a violation of the Model Code of Conduct?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meditation escapade to the serene confines of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari has sparked a tempest in the political teacup. Opposing factions, led by the Congress and Trinamool Congress, have sounded the alarm bells, crying foul over potential violations of election regulations. But is there more to this meditation saga than meets the eye?

What is the Silence Period?
The silence period, enshrined under Section 126 of the Representation of People Act, 1951, marks the 48-hour period leading up to the conclusion of voting. Its primary objective is to ensure a level playing field for all candidates and parties by prohibiting political campaigning activities that could sway voters at the last minute. During this crucial phase, activities such as public meetings, the use of loudspeakers, and political advertisements are strictly restricted. Political advertisements through electronic and social media are also not allowed. However, door-to-door campaigning is allowed.


PM Modi's Meditation Plans
PM Modi's scheduled visit to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial during the silence period has raised eyebrows, especially considering his candidacy in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections from Varanasi. However, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has sought to allay concerns by assuring the Election Commission that Modi will not engage in any campaign-related activities during his meditation retreat. The PMO's stance implies that Modi's visit would not technically violate election laws, as he would refrain from direct or indirect campaigning.

Opposition's Allegations
Despite the PMO's assurances, parties in the INDIA bloc argued that it contravened the Model Code of Conduct due to its association with media coverage.

Congress on Wednesday approached the Election Commission, saying that the Prime Minister's move constitutes a "violation" of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

"We told the Election Commission that during the silence period of 48 hours, no one should be allowed to campaign, directly or indirectly," senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi told reporters after meeting Election Commission officials at the poll body's office in Delhi.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said that the Trinamool Congress will complain to the Election Commission if Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meditation in Kanyakumari is televised, alleging that it would amount to a violation of the code of conduct.

According to legal experts, the telecast of meditation will not be a violation of MCC as he will be not uttering any word that can be linked to the election campaign.

"The Prime Minister had gone on a similar meditation exercise in a Kedarnath cave after the 2019 poll campaign and that was not in violation of MCC," a legal expert said.

EC's Response
This is not the first instance where PM Modi's meditation retreats have drawn scrutiny during election periods. Similar concerns were raised during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections when Modi visited Kedarnath. However, on that occasion, the ECI permitted the visit while reminding the PMO of the ongoing Model Code of Conduct.

Inputs from Agencies