Congress complaint leads to EC directive: "BJP's video targeting muslims to be removed"

• Election Commission directs social media platform X to remove BJP Karnataka's video targeting Muslims amid Lok Sabha elections
• Karnataka Police had earlier issued a notice to X, urging removal of the post targeting Muslims, Rahul Gandhi, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
• Congress files complaint against BJP leaders, alleging the video aimed to incite communal tensions, prompting regulatory action from the EC

down an animated video post shared by the BJP Karnataka handle, which targeted Muslims during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The video, perceived to highlight the BJP's allegation of Muslim appeasement by the Congress, drew criticism and complaint from the Congress party, prompting regulatory action. Earlier on Tuesday, the Karnataka Police had issued a notice to X, urging the platform to remove the contentious post, which not only targeted Muslims but also Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The EC's directive to remove the post underscores the regulatory body's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and preventing the spread of inflammatory content. The Congress had lodged a formal complaint with the state chief electoral officer, citing the post as a deliberate attempt to incite communal tensions. The complaint named several prominent BJP figures, including IT Cell head Amit Malviya, party chief JP Nadda, party state president BY Vijayendra, and the Karnataka BJP social media team. The EC's intervention follows its assessment that the post violated the extant legal framework and could potentially contribute to social disharmony during the sensitive electoral period.

Quoting the EC's directive, a spokesperson stated, "'X' is directed to take down the post immediately. This is issued with the approval of the competent authority." The controversy surrounding the post underscores the ongoing tensions between political parties and the vigilant oversight exercised by regulatory bodies to ensure fair and peaceful elections. The EC's proactive stance in addressing such incidents highlights its role in safeguarding democratic principles and fostering an environment conducive to free and fair elections.