Narendra Modi interview was ‘paid news’, alleges Congress complaint

New Delhi – The Congress has in a letter to the Election Commission sought “stern action” against Narendra Modi and his BJP for an interview that aired on Hindi news channel India TV’s ‘Aap ki Adalat’ programme, alleging it was “paid news” and a violation of the election code of conduct.

Pointing out in its letter that the audience was shouting slogans in support of Mr Modi, the Congress has alleged that the interview was part of the BJP’s election propaganda and has demanded that the cost of the show be included in Mr Modi’s electoral expenses.

“It was scribed for Shri Modi, the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate. The hall was full with like-minded audience, who on the entry of Shri Modi started raising slogans by shouting Modi, Modi, Modi. The programme was designed in a manner for election campaign for Shri Modi and the BJP and not as a news item or routine programme,” the Congress has complained, also saying, “The sole purpose, as can be concluded from tone and tenor of the questions put to him, and the entire programme, was to give unfair and undue electoral advantage to Modi.”

The Congress also alleged in its letter that Qumar Wahid Nakvi, a senior journalist at the channel which aired the interview, has resigned “in protest against the programme.” It said the interview was in “utter disregard” and violation of the model code of conduct and guidelines issued by the commission.