Now, the latest reports suggest that the Election Commission (EC) has asked makers of Zee TV’s Tujhse Hai Raabta makers and &TV's Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain to remove the controversial content that is beneficial for any political party. The two shows were indirectly giving publicity to the BJP government’s pet schemes through their plots. Not only this, EC has also warned makers from doing so in the future as well.
According to Mumbai Mirror, the order issued by the EC read, “The producers of the serials have been told to remove the content that would benefit a political party. Also ensure that this content will not be available on any social or electronic media. If there is any such content which is of the nature of advertisement, the producers should take prior certificate from the concerned authorities before airing it on television. The producers should strictly follow the model code of conduct and other rules of the EC.”
After the EC sent the show cause notices to the channel and producers, Additional Electoral Officer of Maharashtra, Dilip Shinde had told Mumbai Mirror, “We received a complaint that Zee TV and & TV were using their serials to campaign the Centre’s schemes and hence violating the model code of conduct. We have issued show cause notices to producers of the serials. They will have to reply in 24 hours. Further action will be taken after receiving their reply.”
While Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant had applauded EC’s move and had told the tabloid, “It was a serious matter and the action by the EC was expected. The channels have brazenly violated the code of conduct. I had demanded that the channels should be suspended for the violation. The EC should also hold BJP responsible for running their campaign on the channels. It also shows how BJP is muzzling democracy and setting the wrong precedent. This trend is dangerous for the country. The party is using deceptive and illegal means to garner votes.”
Image Source:Pinterest,CareerFirst