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Election Commission to Issue Advisory on Level Playing Field Concerns Raised by Opposition INDIA Bloc

Kalyani Jha
27 Mar, 2024

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is gearing up to issue an advisory in response to concerns raised by the Opposition INDIA bloc regarding the erosion of a level playing field and alleged misuse of central agencies during the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024. The advisory is expected to address the need for neutrality and fair play in the electoral process.

A delegation representing the INDIA bloc recently met with the poll panel to highlight their apprehensions about maintaining a level playing field. The meeting came in the wake of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest by the Enforcement Directorate, sparking concerns about political interference in the electoral process.

Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi, part of the delegation, emphasized the importance of upholding the constitution's basic structure, especially during elections. He stressed that misusing agencies to tilt the playing field impacts democracy's fundamental principles.

The INDIA bloc leaders cited recent actions by central agencies against opposition figures, including Kejriwal, and urged the ECI to ensure that enforcement actions are conducted impartially and without discrimination. They reminded the poll panel of a similar advisory issued during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, urging enforcement agencies to maintain neutrality and inform the ECI of their actions.

In response, the ECI is expected to issue either a strong advisory to the Centre or specific communication to central investigation and enforcement agencies, reiterating the need for impartiality and transparency in their actions.

With Lok Sabha polls set to commence on April 19, the opposition is gearing up for a rally on March 31 at Delhi’s Ramilila Grounds to protest against what they perceive as the misuse of central agencies by the ruling BJP government. The ECI's forthcoming advisory aims to address these concerns and ensure a fair electoral process.