‘Not the first time’: Cong writes to EC seeking action against Amish Devgan over Ram temple ‘monologue’

The Congress has submitted a complaint to the Election Commission of India over a News18 India show anchored by Amish Devgan which the party said allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct by invoking religious sentiments. 

“The monologue also had instances whereby Mr Narendra Modi and the BJP are portrayed as true devotees of Lord Ram, in contrast to the opposition. The tonality of the script, along with the clippings of various political leaders has been deliberately put together in a manner to portray religion as the principle issue on which political parties and their candidates were contesting against one another,” stated the Congress complaint, signed by Randeep Surjewala and dated April 18, while referring to an Aar Paar episode aired on April 17.

The party’s letter said that the EC had earlier held that organisations other than political parties must also refrain from invoking religion in any manner for the purposes of election campaigning. It said that the anchor was liable for action under IPC sections 153A, 153B and 505(3). 

The Congress said it “is not the first time that Mr Devgan has deliberately made incendiary, provocative statements based on religious identity”.

The complaint said if the issue is not addressed urgently, news channels will continue telecasting similar programmes.

If you’re reading this story, you’re not seeing a single advertisement. That’s because Newslaundry powers ad-free journalism that’s truly in public interest. Support our work and subscribe today.