The 'Laapata Gentlemen' Return: Election Commission's New Poll Announcement

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar referred to a popular meme while announcing assembly polls for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana, humorously dubbing colleagues as 'laapata gentlemen.' Amid social media chatter accusing the Election Commission of inaction during Lok Sabha elections, Kumar clarified their constant engagement through media advisories.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar humorously referenced a popular meme as he announced upcoming assembly polls for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana on Friday. His playful remark, dubbing his colleagues as the 'laapata gentlemen,' recalled social media chatter during Lok Sabha elections earlier this year.

During the press briefing, where he introduced fellow commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Kumar highlighted their continued efforts amid allegations of inaction. Social media users had accused the Election Commission of being inactive amid alleged violations of the model code of conduct by top leaders during campaigning, likening them to characters from the movie 'Laapata Ladies.'

Kumar stressed that the Election Commission had always been active, engaging with the public through numerous press notes. 'This was the first time we issued close to 100 press notes and advisories all together,' he explained, addressing the meme’s playful critique.