The Delhi High Court has rejected a petition seeking to disqualify Prime Minister Narendra Modi from contesting elections for six years, dismissing the plea as “thoroughly misconceived.” The petition, filed by lawyer Anand S Jondhale, alleged that PM Modi had sought votes in the name of deities and places of worship, violating the model code of conduct and legal statutes.
Justice Sachin Datta, presiding over the case, deemed the petition “devoid of any merits,” stating that the petitioner’s assumption of a violation of the model code of conduct was unfounded. The court emphasized that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for independently evaluating complaints and issuing appropriate orders.
The petitioner’s argument centered on PM Modi’s speech in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, where he allegedly appealed to voters in the name of Hindu and Sikh deities and their places of worship. The plea sought to restrain the prime minister from using religious appeals to solicit votes.
During the court proceedings, advocate Sidhant Kumar, representing the ECI, assured that the petitioner’s complaint would be duly processed and addressed. The court reiterated that it was not within its jurisdiction to direct the ECI’s actions or issue peremptory directives.
Sources By Agencies
