May 30, 2024: A delegation from the Indian National Congress has appealed to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to intervene in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposed “Maun Vrat” (silence vow) scheduled to begin on the eve of crucial electoral events. The delegation, led by senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi, expressed concerns about the potential indirect campaigning and media coverage during the mandated silence period.
PM Modi announced his intention to start a “Maun Vrat” after campaigning for the 7th and final phase, planning to meditate in Kanyakumari. Singhvi, representing the delegation, emphasized that during the 48-hour silence period, no form of campaigning, direct or indirect, should be allowed. “We told the Election Commission that during the silence period of 48 hours, no one should be allowed to campaign, directly or indirectly,” Singhvi asserted.
The Congress delegation highlighted that Modi’s vow, set to begin on the evening of May 30, coinciding with the start of the silence period, could be perceived as a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. “The silence period would be from 7 o’clock on May 30 till June 1. This is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct,” Singhvi emphasized, suggesting that such actions could unduly influence voter sentiment.
To mitigate the potential impact, the Congress proposed that PM Modi commence his “Maun Vrat” after the silence period or restrict its media coverage if initiated during the silence period. “We have asked the Election Commission that he should start this (Maun Vrat) after 24-48 hours in the evening of June 1. But if he insists on beginning this tomorrow, then it should be prohibited from being telecasted by print or audio-visual Media,” Singhvi stated.
The Congress party’s plea underscores their concern over maintaining fairness and neutrality in the electoral process, ensuring no undue advantage is afforded through indirect campaigning or media influence during the critical silence period before voting.
