The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) found itself in hot water as the Delhi chief electoral officer rejected their claim of the Election Commission banning their campaign song, "Jail Ka Jawab, Vote Se Denge." The electoral office clarified that the song needed modifications as it violated electoral guidelines and advertising codes.
The AAP's campaign song, penned and sung by party MLA Dilip Pandey, raised allegations of dictatorial governance, unemployment, inflation, and conspiracy against opposition leaders. However, the pre-certification committee identified eight problematic parts in the song.
The objections included phrases like "jail ke jawab me hum vote denge," which depicted an aggressive mob holding a photo of CM Arvind Kejriwal behind bars, potentially undermining the judiciary. Other phrases like "Tanashahi party ko hum chot denge" and visuals of protesters clashing with the police were deemed as inciting violence.
Additionally, the committee flagged slanderous remarks and unverified criticism against the ruling party and other political leaders. The repetition of objectionable phrases throughout the song raised concerns regarding its overall impact.
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In response to the objections, the electoral office advised the AAP to modify the song and video accordingly. Despite the timing discrepancy between the song's release and the receipt of objections, the AAP was urged to address the concerns raised by the electoral committee.
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AAP's senior leader Atishi defended the campaign song, stating that it focused on factual incidents and did not violate the Model Code of Conduct. However, the electoral office's decision underscores the importance of adhering to electoral guidelines to ensure fair and responsible campaigning.
The rejection of AAP's campaign song highlights the need for political parties to exercise caution in their messaging during elections. While campaigning allows parties to voice their concerns and agenda, it must be done within the bounds of electoral regulations to maintain integrity and fairness in the electoral process.