Appeal to Delegates from 23 Countries Invited by Election Commission of India to Observe 2024 General Elections!

 

Hon’ble Delegates,

 

Indian voters have learnt through a Press Release issued on 4 May 2024 by the Election Commission of India (ECI) that 75 delegates representing various Election Management Bodies (EMBs) and organizations from 23 Countries have been invited to “witness democratic excellence first-hand.” The Press Release adds:

 

·      As a beacon of electoral integrity and transparency the ECI exemplifies its commitment to conduct general elections of the highest standards.

·      The program seeks to familiarize foreign EMB s with the nuances of India’s electoral system as well as the best practices used by the largest democracy in the world.

·      The delegates will embark on visits to six states – Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh – in small groups to observe polls and related preparedness in various constituencies.

·      The 1400 million people of India welcome you with their traditional hospitality ardently hoping that you shall try to seek truth in this noble venture from the Election Commission of India. A few simple questions you could request to be answered:

a.    Are there complaints lodged by opposition parties pending against the Prime Minister of India regarding violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?

b.    Whether any Notice has been sent to the Prime Minister himself by name to respond?

c.     If not, why not?

d.    Why is there a delay in taking necessary action against these violations of MCC?

 

Since the ECI sees itself as a beacon of electoral integrity and transparency; terms its functioning as of highest standards; talks of democratic excellence; and of best practices used by the largest democracy in the world, it should answer the above questions humbly and honestly.

 

Thanks,

Yours sincerely,

P.S. Sahni

Member, PIL Watch Group

Email: pilwatchgroup@gmail.com