Guwahati, 29 September (HS): BJP MP from Guwahati Bijuli Kalita Medhi on Tuesday said that creating an atmosphere of unwarranted suspicion against constitutional institutions amounted to undermining democracy.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP Assam Pradesh office, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Bhawan, Medhi said all political parties have a responsibility to maintain public confidence in the electoral system and constitutional institutions.

Referring to the Election Commission’s clarification following its September 26 meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners, she said several issues related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) had been clarified. According to the Commission, key decisions and the related schedule for the SIR were taken unanimously, she said.

Medhi said political parties should not create doubts about the credibility of constitutional institutions based on news reports or partial information. She also said factual and procedural aspects concerning the SIR and Form 6 should be examined separately.

The BJP MP said the Election Commission is a constitutional authority responsible for conducting elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, state legislative assemblies, as well as the offices of President and Vice-President.

She also referred to the 2019 Rafale controversy and Rahul Gandhi’s subsequent unconditional apology before the Supreme Court over attributing his “Chowkidar Chor Hai” remark to a court order. Medhi said political differences are a normal part of democracy, but responsible conduct towards constitutional institutions such as the judiciary and Election Commission is essential.

Guwahati Mayor Mrigen Sarania, Central Guwahati MLA Vijay Kumar Gupta, BJP Assam Pradesh vice-president Ratna Singh and state BJP media department convenor Rupam Goswami were present at the press conference.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash