EC lifts ban on Amit Shah, allows him to campaign in UP

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has lifted its ban and allowed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Shah to resume his campaign in Uttar Pradesh for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Modifying its April 11 order, the Commission said, "In your representation, you have stated, inter alia, that I undertake on oath that I shall not use abusive or derogatory language in the campaign and shall not make any utterances violative of Model Code of Condut."

"You have further stated that "I give a solemn undertaking that in future l shall not indulge in any act that would be deemed violative of the model code of conduct. I give a solemn pledge to the Hon'ble commission that I shall in no manner give cause to be accused as having indulged in any act of commission or omission which has the effect of prejudicially affecting the public tranquility and law and order," said the EC.

The Commission, thus, has allowed to Shah to hold to any public meetings, public processions, public rallies, road shows, etc in Uttar Pradesh.

The Commission also stated that its order is without any prejudice to any proceedings pending in the court /police with authorities in the matter.

Terming its decision as a 'second chance' to Shah, the EC also said that it would closely monitor his campaign activities by constant video tracking, and added that he must ensure compliance to the Commission directions.

The EC had recently banned Shah from addressing any public rallies in the state after he made a hate speech.