A major controversy erupted on Sunday after a video concerning campaign comments by the Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister, Y Patton went viral and the Congress alleging blatant violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
In the video, Patton is heard telling polling agents, village councils and Gaon Buras (GBs) to cast votes on behalf of the villagers.
“If possible, chairman, gaonburas, polling agents should cast the votes in a village,” Patton said. Laughter and applause can be heard in the background as he went on to say, “Spare them (villagers or the electorate) the trouble. Let them go to work in the fields.”
However, in a press release, he took the opportunity to clarify his stance and address the concerns raised.
The statement in question, according to Patton, was an ill-conceived attempt at humor made during a campaign event predominantly attended by party workers from various political affiliations. Patton asserts that the remark was not meant to be taken literally but rather as a lighthearted comment on the challenges faced by rural populations during elections.
Acknowledging the sensitivity of language, especially in the heightened atmosphere of an election, Patton emphasized his respect for the democratic process and the right of every citizen to cast their vote. He stressed that his intention was never to undermine or subvert this fundamental aspect of democracy.
Expressing regret for the misunderstanding caused by his words, Patton reiterated his commitment to empowering and enabling the electoral process, rather than obstructing it. He called upon all citizens to actively participate in the forthcoming parliamentary elections, emphasizing the importance of every voice being heard.
- Agencies/ Various Sources