Don't Use Photos Of Defence Personnel In Political Campaigns, ECI Tells Politicos

As usual, they have not spared the Defence forces this time too, and are seen more vigorously using their photos to flaunt 'patriotism' and 'nationalism'.

The Election Commission of India has again reiterated its advisory that photographs of Chief of Army Staff or any other Defence personnel and photographs of functions of Defence Forces should not be associated with or used in any manner in advertisement/propaganda/campaigning or in any other manner in connection with elections by political parties and candidates.

In a letter issued to Presidents/Chairperson/General Secretary of all recognized National/State Political Parties, the ECI Secretary, Pramod Kumar Sharma, reminded them about the letter it had issued before last General Elections in 2014

The commission said that it has been brought to its notice that some political parties are using the photographs of the Defence personnel in advertisements as part of their political campaigns. It reiterated the same instructions it issued in December 2013:

"The Commission accordingly calls upon all the political parties to advise their candidates/leaders to desist from displaying photographs of Defence personnel or photographs of functions involving Defence personnel in advertisements, or otherwise as part of their election propaganda/campaigning. You are, therefore, requested to issue appropriate instructions to your candidates/leaders/cadres in this regard to ensure compliance in the matter."

Read Letter