As India's Lok Sabha elections unfold, the political arena has been ignited by an animated video shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The video, which targets the opposition Congress party and the Muslim community, has sparked outrage and drawn complaints to the Election Commission.
Posted on BJP's social media platforms, including Instagram and X, the video portrays Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as advocates of a particular religion, allegedly favoring minority Muslims over tribal and Hindu groups. Critics argue that the video aims to sow division and incite Hindu sentiment to ensure the victory of BJP candidates in the upcoming polls.
Opposition parties, led by the Congress, have condemned the video, accusing the BJP of employing divisive tactics to sway voters. Complaints have been lodged with the Election Commission, alleging that the video violates the standard election code of conduct and promotes religious animosity.
In response to the controversy, BJP All India President JP Nadda stated that complaints have been filed against several leaders, including Amit Malviya, with the Election Commission. Meanwhile, the Congress has lodged a formal complaint before the Chief Electoral Officer, condemning the video for its potential to stoke communal tensions and incite violence.
As the third phase of voting approaches, with heavyweight leaders such as Amit Shah, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Prahlad Patel, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Digvijay Singh contesting, the political atmosphere in India remains charged with anticipation and apprehension.
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