AAP protests against Modi television appeal

New Delhi, May 12 (IANS) The AAP Monday urged the Election Commission to take strict action against TV channels for telecasting a message from BJP's prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi in violation of electoral laws.

The Aam Aadmi Party said it was a violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) to telecast an appeal from Modi to the electorate on a day his constituency Varanasi was voting.

"AAP is shocked to see the gross violation of the MCC by media houses and the ostrich approach of the Election Commission," the AAP complaint said.

"The whole of India is aware that Modi is a contestant in Varanasi and broadcasting his political speeches (Monday) amounts to influencing the voters of Varanasi," it said.

The AAP said that MCC was applicable on all citizens, and media houses were no exception.

"By not initiating suo-moto action against these media channels, is the Election Commission indicating its submissiveness?

"It is the Election Commission's duty to conduct a free and fair (election). Why isn't the Election Commission issuing any direction to these news channels to stop the broadcast forthwith?"

The AAP demanded "strong and exemplary action" against the erring TV channels.