Kerala HC lauds Election Commission for clutter-free polls

Kochi, April 13 In a notable judicial endorsement of election conduct in the state, the Kerala High Court has placed on record its commendation for the Election Commission for ensuring a visually clean and disciplined campaign season.

Hearing the case Rahul K.T vs St. Stephen's Malankara Catholic Church & Others, Justice Devan Ramachandran recorded the appreciation after amicus curiae Harish Vasudevan submitted that the state had been largely spared the usual proliferation of boards, flags, and festoons during the election, which concluded with polling on April 9.

The court observed that the strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct played a key role in curbing indiscriminate campaign displays, a recurring concern in previous elections.

While noting this positive shift, the court clarified that other issues in the case remain pending, adjourning the matter to be taken up after the court vacation due to a lack of time.

The court’s remarks come amid a broader shift in campaign styles on the ground.

In Puthuppally, Congress candidate Chandy Oommen, son of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, drew widespread attention for consciously avoiding flex boards and opting for a low-cost, people-centric campaign.

Often seen cycling through the constituency to solicit votes, his approach struck a chord with voters and gained traction on social media.

The campaign received a further boost when senior party leader Rahul Gandhi joined him on a bicycle during the campaign visit, reinforcing the message of simplicity and accessibility.

Oommen later said his total campaign expenditure was around Rs 20 lakh, underscoring the viability of modest, compliant electioneering.

This commendation came after the state went to the polls on April 9 to elect 140 new legislators.

Together, the High Court’s commendation and emerging campaign trends point to a potential recalibration in Kerala’s political culture, one that favours restraint, civic responsibility and greater adherence to electoral norms.

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