Four days after Gandhi's eight-page reply to the EC denying having violated the model code, the poll body did not buy his explanation, saying it was not satisfied with his contentions.
"While the Commission acknowledges the underlying intention and spirit of your impugned speeches to foster and promote communal harmony, it takes exception to the tone, tenor and content of the impugned portions of your speeches (extracted in the Commission's notice) which are part of your said speeches.
The Commission said it is "not satisfied" with Gandhi's explanation furnished in his reply to the Commission's notice.
"Now, therefore, having regard to the totality of facts and circumstances of the case and submissions and contentions made by you in your reply under reference, the Commission hereby conveys its displeasure and advises you to be more circumspect in your public utterances during election campaigns," it said.
Gandhi had pleaded not guilty to such charges while seeking to justify his controversial remarks.
The BJP had made several representations to the EC against Gandhi's remarks and demanded action against him.