ECI orders action against Islamophobic Campaign by BJP in Jharkhand
Ranchi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has stated that a campaign video by BJP’s Jharkhand unit, depicting Muslims as infiltrators, prima facie violates the Model Code of Conduct.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the ECI has directed Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar to ensure the video’s removal from social media and seek an explanation from BJP’s state unit. Although BJP has deleted the video, it continues to circulate on right-wing Hindutva accounts.
The video shows individuals dressed as Muslims forcibly occupying a supporter’s home, cautioning voters against making “wrong choices.”
The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and Congress have filed complaints, saying the BJP is spreading false narratives to provoke communal tensions.
JMM condemned the video, calling it a new low in BJP’s divisive politics.
Congress demanded criminal action against BJP’s social media handlers, adding the party uses inflammatory rhetoric to polarize voters.
Experts highlight that such narratives, including labeling Muslims as Rohingyas and Bangladeshi infiltrators, have become central to BJP’s election strategy, with support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Rights groups warn these campaigns of deepen societal divides and marginalize Muslim voters.
