The Congress party has raised concerns over the short notice period provided by the Election Commission to party chief Mallikarjun Kharge. The notice pertains to “terrorist” remarks directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Allegations of ‘Ulterior Motives’
In a summary response to the poll body, the Congress party asserted that the notice “smacks of ulterior motives.” The party maintains that there has been no violation of any laws or the model code of conduct.
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh, in a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, flagged several procedural discrepancies. He noted that the party received two notices with the same number, F. No. 437/TNLA/2026/SS-I (MCC Complaint), both dated April 22, 2026.
Ramesh pointed out that although the notices shared the same number and date, they were signed by two different officials. He further noted that there was no mention of whether one of the notices had been withdrawn.
Challenges to Natural Justice
The Congress party criticized the Election Commission for providing only 24 hours to file a response. Ramesh argued that this timeframe is insufficient, particularly as the Congress president is currently engaged in multiple campaigns.
The letter suggested that the Commission is issuing show cause notices in a “casual and routine manner,” allegedly based on versions provided by the ruling party’s complainants without proper application of mind.
Ramesh stated that the action by the Chief Election Commissioner appears to be a “formality” rather than a genuine discharge of “natural justice.”
Next Steps and Requests
While filing the summary reply, the Congress party has requested one week to submit a detailed response. They have as well asked for a senior delegation of party leaders to present this response to the Commission.
In the interim summary, Ramesh noted that the remarks in question have already been clarified by Mallikarjun Kharge himself.
Depending on the Commission’s decision, the EC may grant the requested extension, which could lead to a formal meeting between the poll body and a senior Congress delegation to resolve the matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Election Commission issue a notice to Mallikarjun Kharge?
The notice was issued regarding “terrorist” remarks made by the Congress president against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
What specific procedural errors did Congress allege?
Congress alleged they received two notices with the same number (F. No. 437/TNLA/2026/SS-I) signed by different officials, and noted that the complainant’s name, Derek O’Brien, was missing from the version of the notice uploaded to the EC website.
What is the Congress party requesting from the Chief Election Commissioner?
The party is seeking an extension of one week to file a detailed response and requesting that a senior delegation of Congress leaders be allowed to present that response.
Do you believe a 24-hour window is sufficient for political leaders to respond to official notices during an active election campaign?