In a decisive move to guarantee adherence to the model code of conduct, the Union government has been instructed by the Election Commission to “immediately halt” the transmission of Viksit Bharat messages via WhatsApp.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has also been directed by the poll panel to promptly submit a compliance report.
The Election Commission took action on Thursday in response to multiple complaints that MeitY had been sending messages in violation of the model code. The ministry responded by telling the panel that some of the messages could have been delivered later than expected due to “system architecture and timing issues.” The messages, which include a letter from the Prime Minister, were sent out on March 15, which is before the model code of conduct (MCC) went into effect.

The ministry’s message, which highlighted the government’s many programs and policies, also requested comments and recommendations from the recipients. A green checkmark appears next to the handle from which the messages were sent, and it reads, “Viksit Bharat Sampark is an ongoing initiative of the Government of India for evaluation of the flagship schemes and improvement in its implementation and delivery.” It also includes a link to MeitY’s website and its address.