Congress Leader Vilas Muttemwar Writes to Election Commission Over BJP Agitation Near His Nagpur Home
In a recent development, Congress leader Vilas Muttemwar has penned a letter to the Election Commission, urging action against BJP activists for staging an agitation outside his residence in Nagpur. The protest, deemed illegal and a breach of the Model Code of Conduct for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, occurred on April 5, flouting prohibitory orders enforced in the area.
Background: Muttemwar’s Election Campaign and BJP’s Response
Vilas Muttemwar, a former Union minister, highlighted his active involvement in the election campaign for Congress candidate Vikas Thakre, vying for the Nagpur Lok Sabha seat. He cited media reports suggesting that BJP activists planned the agitation in response to certain statements made by him during the campaign.
The Agitation: A Violation of Peace and Order
On the evening of April 5, approximately 40 BJP members gathered in groups at Shankar Nagar Square near Muttemwar’s residence. Displaying banners of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, a BJP affiliate, they disrupted traffic, raised abusive slogans against Muttemwar and the Congress, and even burnt his effigy. This event, captured on camera and widely circulated on social media, showcased blatant disregard for law and order.
Legal Implications: Violation of Section 144
Muttemwar emphasized the failure of the BJP activists to comply with the orders issued under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure by the Nagpur police commissioner. Despite the presence of law enforcement personnel, the demonstrators persisted in their disruptive behavior, creating chaos in the vicinity of his residence.
Seeking Justice from the Election Commission
In his letter to the Election Commission, Muttemwar unequivocally condemned the actions of the BJP activists and urged the commission to take appropriate measures against them. He stressed the importance of upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring the safety and security of candidates and their supporters.
Upholding Democratic Values
The incident involving the agitation by BJP activists outside Vilas Muttemwar’s Nagpur residence underscores the need for maintaining civility and respect in political discourse. Such actions not only disrupt public peace but also undermine the democratic principles upon which our nation stands. It is imperative for the Election Commission to address such violations promptly and impartially to safeguard the electoral process.
