In a bid to uphold transparency, the Election Commission issues notices to BJP and Congress over alleged poll code violations. Meanwhile, surprise inspections of leaders’ belongings spark controversy, leaving Maharashtra voters questioning what’s in the bag—and what’s at stake.
By PC Bureau
The Election Commission on Saturday issued notices to BJP and Congress presidents, JP Nadda and Mallikarjun Kharge, seeking explanations for remarks made by their star campaigners, Amit Shah and Rahul Gandhi, which allegedly breached the model code of conduct. Both leaders were directed to respond by 1 a.m. on Monday, just two days before the second round of polling concludes in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.
The BJP filed a complaint on November 11, accusing Rahul Gandhi of “falsely accusing other states of stealing opportunities from Maharashtra.” The party alleged that Gandhi’s remarks were “inciting the youth of Maharashtra,” potentially threatening national unity. “As part of his usual campaign rhetoric, Gandhi’s speech was filled with falsehoods, designed to create disaffection, enmity, and division among states,” the BJP claimed, suggesting his comments aimed to drive a wedge between Maharashtra, Gujarat, and other states.
In a counter-complaint on November 13, the Congress accused Home Minister Amit Shah of making “false, divisive, malicious, and slanderous statements” against the Congress and its allies, further intensifying the political confrontation.
Earlier, the Election Commission conducted surprise inspections of the bags and belongings of prominent leaders, including Uddhav Thackeray, Eknath Shinde, and Rahul Gandhi.
On Saturday evening, under the glare of media cameras, a team of officials arrived at a rally venue in Mumbai, targeting private vehicles, travel bags, and even the luggage of the leaders’ entourages.
Uddhav Thackeray, fresh from delivering a rousing speech, remained composed as officials approached. “We have nothing to hide. Let them check,” he said, gesturing to his duffel bag. Inside, officials found typical political gear: neatly folded kurta-pajamas, speech notes, and campaign documents. The inspection ended uneventfully, with Thackeray adding a sharp remark: “They should check the opposition’s bags too—ours only carry the truth.”
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, however, appeared caught off guard. Officials unzipped a black suitcase from his team, revealing campaign banners, stickers, and a box of sweets labeled for distribution. Though not illegal, the sweets raised eyebrows, sparking speculation about potential vote-inducing giveaways. “It’s just for our volunteers,” Shinde explained, chuckling nervously. Still, murmurs among the onlookers hinted at doubts about the explanation.
Rahul Gandhi faced scrutiny later at his hotel. The Congress leader, characteristically calm, watched as officials searched his bag. They uncovered a couple of books, including a well-worn copy of The Idea of India by Sunil Khilnani, along with campaign materials, workout clothes, and a pouch of herbal tea. “Check everything,” Gandhi said with a smile before adding a pointed comment: “Perhaps they should also inspect certain leaders for hidden agendas, not just bags.”
