NaMo TV: EC seeks details from I&B Min, Cong alleges Modi trampling upon democratic norms

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission has issued a notice seeking a report from the I&B Ministry on NaMo TV, launched just weeks ahead of the general elections, after opposition parties including the Congress asked the poll body to direct the ministry to suspend the channel as it was violative of the model code of conduct.

Sources said the Commission has issued the notice to the Information & Broadcasting Secretary on Tuesday evening giving time till Friday evening, as per the Ministry request, to submit a report on the channel and its launch.

The EC will take a call on whether it violates the model code after going through the documents the Ministry files, sources added.

Hours after the EC issued notice to I&B Ministry, the Congress accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of mocking and trampling upon democratic norms by “brazenly” running NaMo TV and asked the poll watchdog to put a stop at this “misuse” of media that seeks to disturb the level-playing field during elections. (AGENCIES)