Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Teeka Ram Meena has directed district collectors to keep a close watch on hate speeches and remarks aimed at causing religious polarisation and hatred during the election campaign.
The CEO said all steps would be taken to check such hate speeches. He reiterated that no one would be allowed to use the Sabarimala temple for electoral gains. The CEO said he would convey the instructions to representatives of political parties at the all-party meeting on Wednesday.
“I have given strict direction to the district collectors that if anyone makes a hate speech or creates provocation for triggering a riot, it will be considered a violation of model code of conduct. DO letter has been sent to district collectors who are also returning officers. They have been told that any violation of law and order or any other provocative action should be dealt with sternly,” he said.
On the argument of a section of leaders that Sabarimala is a political issue and why it shouldn’t be discussed during electioneering, the CEO said: "I am not aware of the political issue. But Sabarimala is a temple, so it is a religious matter. In the name of religion, you cannot seek votes, and it is very clearly mentioned in the model code of conduct,” he said.
As per the model code of conduct, religion, temple, mosque, church or any other place of worship cannot be used for soliciting votes during elections. Mr Meena said he had not banned political debate on the issue.
But the model code of conduct says very clearly that political parties should not undertake any activity which may aggravate the existing differences or create mutual hatred.
Referring to the charge of BJP that when Babri Masjid was being allowed to be discussed why there is a bar on Sabarimala, Mr Meena said he had made it clear whether mosque or temple, no religious place can be used for electoral gains.
The officer said the model code of conduct was not prepared by the EC but by political parties and they are liable to comply with it.
He said politics and religion should not be mixed. Social and political issues can be raised. But using or misusing churches and temple to invoke or provoke the sentiments of people for achieving their political ends was a violation.
