Voice of the People Party Spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh has asserted that political campaigns are recognized by international law and are a fundamental right.
“Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, the right to peaceful assembly without arms, and freedom of movement. All of these are essential components of the right to campaign, including political campaigns,” he stated in a telephonic interview with HP on Saturday.
His statement is in the backdrop of the decision taken by the Mawlai Town Dorbar (MTD) to allow only common platforms as a means to campaign for candidates ahead of the district council polls.
He emphasised that a political campaign is not only the right of a political party to promote its agenda but also the right of citizens to hear and engage with these campaigns.
While acknowledging that the fundamental rights in India are not absolute and can be subject to reasonable restrictions, he argued that it is unreasonable to deny these rights.
He insisted that neither political parties nor the electorate should be deprived of their rights to campaign and participate in the electoral process.
Myrboh pointed out that free campaigning and public meetings are vital aspects of any democracy and electoral process.
He questioned whether the imposition of restrictions on public meetings and election campaigns falls under the jurisdiction of the local dorbar.
“We cannot exercise powers beyond those granted to us. We respect all authority but oppose any abuse or manipulation of power. The VPP calls on all public servants, whether MLAs, MDCs, or Rangbah Shnong, to refrain from using their power inappropriately and to act by the Constitution for the common good,” he added.
He also expressed his support for the idea of a common political platform and encouraged other localities to engage in similar initiatives.
However, he insisted that imposing restrictions on campaigns is unjust.
Myrboh further expressed surprise that the district administration and the government, as protectors of the Constitution, have not taken action against such restrictions.
He stated that the state must encourage public participation in the democratic process and stated, “We will be writing to the appropriate authorities to ensure that fundamental rights are respected and protected.”
