During the Election Commission of India's (ECI) press conference to announce the Lok Sabha elections 2024 schedule, an unexpected interruption occurred when a man not from the press began questioning the Commission's proceedings.
Identified as Professor DS Agarwal, the individual introduced himself as a nominee of ex-President Pranab Mukherjee in 2012. He questioned the nomination process, suggesting that voters should act as proposers instead of Members of Parliament.
#WATCH | During the press conference of the Election Commission of India, a person not belonging to the Press, raises questions against the Election Commission.
— ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024
He was led away from the press conference which was for journalists. pic.twitter.com/kYUWfmO0Bf
Agarwal also raised concerns about the authority given to District Magistrates, who also serve as Returning Officers, to approve or reject candidates' nominations, urging the need for amendments to prevent biased individuals from participating.
The poll body later escorted Agarwal away from the press conference, although no official statement regarding the incident has been issued.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission announced the eagerly awaited Lok Sabha elections for the 543 constituencies, scheduled to take place in seven phases. The polling will commence on April 19 and conclude on June 1, with vote counting slated for June 4. The phases are as follows: April 19 (phase 1), April 26 (phase 2), May 7 (phase 3), May 13 (phase 4), May 20 (phase 5), May 25 (phase 6), and June 1 (phase 7).
In response to concerns over misinformation and fake narratives on social media during elections, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar outlined a two-pronged strategy.
"Misinformation troubles us a lot during elections. We are conscious of two facts -- that social media helps us in our outreach programmes and there is freedom to criticise anybody in a democracy. But one cannot be allowed to create fake news, which is not based on facts because it can disturb public order," he said.
CEC Kumar also reminded political parties of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), which came into effect with the announcement of the elections. He urged parties to maintain decorum during campaigning, advising against hate speeches, caste or religious appeals, and personal attacks. Additionally, he stressed the accountability of star campaigners in upholding campaign standards.
Addressing concerns over bias in addressing MCC violations, the CEC assured that action would be taken against violators, regardless of their political stature. He emphasised the Election Commission's commitment to fair and impartial enforcement of election regulations.
"Wherever there will be a case of violation against anyone, however renowned the politician may be, we will not sit back. We will take action," he said.