I hope that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken due cognizance of my complaint and acted as it should, as an independent authority under the Constitution to ensure that the said elections are conducted in a free and fair manner. There are related issues, as indicated below, on which I would call upon the ECI to act immediately and unhesitatingly. Public servants taking part in any activity that is likely to influence the voters in an election violates the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules and the corresponding conduct rules of the other Central and All India Services. For any public authority to coerce public servants into such activity is punishable not only under the relevant election laws but also under the relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) The Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs Office Memorandum No.25/44/49/Ests. At least four Union Ministers are reported to be contesting the ensuing State assembly elections (https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/india/18-mps-including-4-union-ministers-bjps-star-studded-lineup-for-state-showdowns/articleshow/104290879.cms).

Source: Economic Times October 23, 2023 06:48 UTC