As election campaigns gain momentum in Rajasthan before it goes to poll on December 7, leaders across parties seem to be afflicted by the foot-in-mouth malaise. To make matters worse, in the digital age, all their faux pas come into glaring light as videos go viral on social media and the EC then steps in to issue notices.
The latest to join the gaggle is Safia Khan, the Congress candidate from Ramgarh who was recorded saying, "Use saam, daam, dand, bhed (make them understand, pay off, fear of punishment, or divide) to ensure a win. Even if you have to smash anyone's head, ensure our win." Safia is the wife of Congress national secretary Zuber Khan.
Then there is Ramhet Yadav — the BJP MLA from Kishangarhbas, Alwar — whose statement, "All your tractor trolleys that ferry materials from illegal mining cannot run due to the SC order."
"But, they still run unchecked only because Ramhet is an MLA and his government. So you should take care of me," has courted controversy.
Meanwhile, the BJP candidate from Nimbaheda in Chittorgarh, Srichand Kriplani, has resorted to a quirky vote appeal: "Vote for me and make me win or I will commit suicide."
His opponent from Congress, Udailal Anjana, has turned to betting. "I am ready to give a rate of 1:10 for a vote. If someone gives you Rs 100, I will give Rs 10,000; if someone gives Rs 10,000, then I will give Rs 1 lakh."
However, it is not just the regional leaders who are landing themselves in hot water. Recently, after Congress leader CP Joshi's video about PM Modi's caste leaked, Congress had to dissociate itself from the controversy entirely.
Modi even counter attacked Congress in his Alwar rally.
In the meantime, the EC has also served notices to Joshi, Kriplani and evene Amit Shah for his comment about holding the opposition by the cuff when they seek vote.
Experts say the technology boom is one reason why these remarks resonate longer than they did in previous election cycles. "Its a paradox — leaders maintain old styles of communication with voters to reach out them, but voters today hold up smartphones to record every word their neta speaks. Politicians need to understand the perils," said Dr Rajesh Sharma, Associate Professor, Political Science at University of Rajasthan.
Smash Heads, Says Cong Leader
- Ramgarh candidate recorded saying, “Even if you have to smash anyone’s head, ensure our win.”
- She also incited crowds by suggesting they use ‘saam, daam, dand, bhed’ to rally voters
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