Congress MP Challenges Modi’s Address in Supreme Court for Poll Code Violation

In a significant political move, Congress Member of Parliament TN Prathapan has filed a petition with the Supreme Court challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address to the nation, which aired on April 18. The broadcast, which was transmitted by government-controlled channels Doordarshan and Sansad TV, is alleged to have violated the Model Code of Conduct in place during the election period.

Prathapan’s petition claims that Modi’s address strategically used public resources to undermine opposition parties while campaigning was underway. He pointed out that the speech was not only live on these platforms but also funded by taxpayer money, raising questions about the use of state resources for political gains. The address came shortly after the Lok Sabha rejected the Union government’s proposed amendments to the Women’s Reservation Act, an event that Modi criticized during his speech, arguing that opposition parties had obstructed progress on this crucial legislation.

On April 17, the Lok Sabha saw the defeat of the 2026 Constitution 131st Amendment Bill, which aimed to amend significant electoral frameworks. To pass this constitutional amendment, a two-thirds majority was required, a threshold that the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) could not meet without the support of opposition parties. Modi’s speech sought to portray the opposition in a negative light, accusing them of being against legislative reforms essential for women’s representation in politics.

This incident sheds light on the ongoing tensions between the ruling party and opposition, particularly in the lead-up to the elections. The opposition has been vocal about what they perceive as the government’s misuse of state machinery to bolster its narrative while stifling dissent. Prathapan’s legal challenge reflects a broader concern about the fairness of the electoral process and the adherence to established guidelines meant to ensure a level playing field for all political parties.

As the political climate heats up in India, the outcome of this Supreme Court petition could have significant implications not only for Modi’s government but also for the integrity of the electoral process itself. Legal experts and political analysts will be closely watching how the court interprets the Model Code of Conduct in relation to government broadcasts during elections.

Source: scroll.in