How Model Code of Conduct saved Indian Democracy? – Everything about Model Code of Conduct & role of T.N. Seshan
Table of Contents
Introduction About Model Code of Conduct
Model Code of Conduct is a tool in Indian Democracy that work as a strongest shield in Indian Parliamentary Democracy. This code of conduct helps to prevent people / political parties / their members / their election candidates to do things that may or can harm the democracy in either ways.
This Model code of conduct was introduced by election commission of India but never enforced strictly until T.N. Seshan did. This is why, T.N. Seshan was also termed as ‘Shield of Indian Democracy’, ‘Savior of Indian Democracy’, ‘Hero of Indian Democracy’ and many others.
In India, those who are preparing for Major competitive examinations needs to prepare for election commission of India and how do they work. Similarly, in their way of working, aspirants also read about MCC (Model Code of Conduct) in Indian Polity.
If you are also preparing for Major competitive examinations like UPSC, SSC, Bank Po and many others, then this general awareness topic of Election commission of India will help you to crack the exam.
In this blog, we have added all the details about Model Code of Conduct in Details.
So, let’s start-
What is Model Code of Conduct? – Details about Model Code of Conduct
History of Model Code of Conduct – Background of Model Code of Conduct
The history of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in India is deeply rooted in the evolution of democratic processes and the need to ensure fair and transparent elections.
The origins of the MCC can be traced back to the 1960 Kerala State Legislative Assembly Elections, where the State Administration, for the first time, issued a set of instructions to regulate the conduct of participating political institutions.
This initial effort was a response to the growing need for guidelines to ensure ethical conduct during election campaigns.
The significance of the Code gained national recognition during the 1962 Lok Sabha Elections and State Legislative Assembly elections. The Code was then circulated widely to all recognized states and national political parties. Interestingly, the Code was voluntarily embraced by political entities as a means of promoting a free and fair electoral regime.
As the years progressed, the 1967 general elections witnessed more states embracing the Code. The State of Kerala, in particular, re-adopted the Code in a political party conference in December 1966.
Other states, including Madras, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh, demonstrated their acceptance by formulating codes based on the initial draft. These codes were the result of extensive discussions and deliberations during political meetings.
Recognizing the need for wider dissemination and acceptance, the Election Commission organized state-level meetings to promote the incorporation of the Code in the election process.
In an effort to establish a standard for political behavior, a document titled “Role and Responsibilities of Political Parties during Elections” was prepared during the midterm General Elections of 1968 and 1969.
This document was presented to political parties in state-level meetings, appealing for compliance. As the electoral process faced challenges and increasing malfeasance due to heightened political competitiveness, the Election Commission took steps to strengthen the Code.
In 1979, during a conference of political parties, a section monitoring the conduct of “parties in power” was added to the Code. This revision aimed to prevent powerful political actors from exploiting their position for undue advantage.
Despite the prolonged existence of the Code, compliance lacked statutory sanctions, and no punitive mechanisms were in place for defiance.
In 1980, due to continued violations and corrupt practices, the Election Commission proposed to include Part VII of the Code under the purview of a statute. However, no law was enacted to this effect.
The turning point in the evolution of the Code came during the 1991 General Elections. Under the supervision of the then Election Commissioner T.N. Seshan, the Code was consolidated and reissued. While the original draft of 1979 was retained, changes were made in Part VII, introducing stricter provisions for effective implementation.
Despite challenges and conflicts regarding the operationalization of the Code, a consensus was reached in 2001 between the Election Commission and state and central governments.
This agreement affirmed the Election Commission’s authority, and a mandatory clause limited the announcement of election dates more than three years in advance.
Over the years, the Code has undergone modifications, with significant changes in 2014 introducing new guidelines for election manifestos.
The judiciary, through judgments like S. Subramaniam Balaji Vs Govt. of Tamil Nadu and Others, has directed the Election Commission to formulate guidelines regulating the conduct of political parties and candidates during elections, leading to the introduction of Part VIII.
The history of the Model Code of Conduct reflects a dynamic response to the evolving needs of India’s democratic process, guided by the principles of fairness, transparency, and ethical conduct in elections.
Overview of Model Code of Conduct
The Model Code of Conduct, instituted by the Election Commission of India, offers guidelines for political parties and candidates during elections, encompassing aspects like speeches, meetings, processions, polling, and general conduct.
Formulated with the consensus of political parties, it aims to ensure fair elections, preventing the misuse of power by ruling parties. Effective upon the announcement of election schedules, it remains in force until the electoral process concludes.
The code prohibits practices deemed corrupt, such as hate speeches, communal provocation, religious appeals, or unrealistic promises. In the 2019 Indian general election, the code was in effect from March 10 until the completion of the electoral process.
What are the Objectives of Model Code of Conduct
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in India serves several important objectives to ensure the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. The primary objectives of the Model Code of Conduct include:
- Fair Play: The MCC aims to promote fair play and level the electoral playing field by preventing any party or candidate from taking undue advantage through unfair means.
- Prevention of Misuse of Power: It seeks to prevent the misuse of governmental and administrative machinery by ruling parties to gain an unfair advantage in elections.
- Prevention of Corrupt Practices: The MCC aims to eliminate corrupt practices during elections, such as bribery, intimidation, and other forms of malpractices that could unduly influence voters.
- Ensuring Ethical Conduct: It lays down guidelines for ethical conduct during election campaigns, discouraging hate speeches, communal provocations, and appeals based on religion or caste.
- Leveling the Playing Field: The MCC is designed to ensure that no political party or candidate enjoys an unfair advantage over others, creating an environment conducive to free and fair elections.
- Promotion of Transparency: The code encourages transparency in the electoral process by regulating election-related activities, campaign financing, and ensuring accurate reporting.
- Accountability: It holds political parties and candidates accountable for their actions and statements during the election period, promoting responsible behavior.
- Protection of Election Commission’s Authority: The MCC reinforces the authority of the Election Commission of India to conduct elections impartially and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
- Prevention of Communal and Divisive Campaigning: The code discourages political campaigns that can create divisions among communities or exploit religious sentiments for electoral gains.
- Public Confidence: By promoting fair practices, ethical conduct, and transparency, the MCC aims to enhance public confidence in the democratic electoral process.
What are the Salient Features of Model Code of Conduct
We have added all Salient Features of Model Code of Conduct Below-
- Fair and Ethical Conduct: The Model Code of Conduct emphasizes fair and ethical behavior by political parties and candidates during elections, promoting a level playing field.
- Avoidance of Communal and Divisive Campaigning: It prohibits appeals to caste or communal feelings and discourages practices that may aggravate differences or create tension among various communities.
- Restrictions on Criticism: Criticism of other political parties is allowed but must be confined to policies, programs, past records, and work, with a prohibition on personal attacks or unverified allegations.
- Prohibition of Corrupt Practices: Parties and candidates are prohibited from engaging in corrupt practices such as bribery, voter intimidation, and canvassing within 100 meters of polling stations.
- Respect for Privacy: The Code ensures the right to a peaceful and undisturbed home-life for individuals, irrespective of their political opinions, discouraging demonstrations or picketing before private residences.
- Regulation of Meetings and Processions: Guidelines are provided for organizing meetings and processions, requiring prior intimation to local police, adherence to prohibitory orders, and cooperation with law enforcement.
- Polling Day Guidelines: Political parties and candidates must cooperate with election officers, refrain from serving or distributing liquor, and maintain order near polling booths to ensure a smooth voting process.
- Party in Power Restrictions: The Code places restrictions on the party in power, preventing the misuse of official machinery, transport, and places for election campaigning, ensuring a level playing field.
- Guidelines on Election Manifestos: Manifestos should adhere to constitutional ideals, be consistent with the Model Code of Conduct, and avoid promises that may vitiate the purity of the election process.
- Prohibitory Period for Manifesto Release: The Code establishes a prohibitory period during which election manifestos should not be released, ensuring that parties do not influence voters unduly during specific phases of the electoral process.
Components of Model Code of Conduct – Key Aspects of Model Code of Conduct
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) consists of various components and key aspects designed to ensure the fair and ethical conduct of political parties and candidates during elections. Here are the essential components:
1. General Conduct
- Prohibits activities that may aggravate differences among castes, communities, or religions.
- Restrains criticism to policies, programs, and work, avoiding personal attacks or unverified allegations.
- Forbids appeals to caste or communal feelings for votes.
2. Meetings
- Requires parties to inform local police of meeting venues and times in advance.
- Adheres to any restrictive or prohibitory orders in force.
- Seeks police assistance for dealing with disruptions during meetings.
3. Processions
- Organizers plan procession routes in advance, inform local police, and comply with restrictions.
- Regulates the carrying of articles and prohibits the burning of effigies representing other political parties.
4. Polling Day
- Parties cooperate with election officers and refrain from serving or distributing liquor.
- Ensures no unnecessary crowds near polling booths and maintains simplicity at candidate camps.
- Observers appointed by the Election Commission address complaints or problems.
5. Polling Booth
- Co-operation with election duty officers to ensure peaceful polling.
- Provision of plain identity slips and refraining from serving or distributing liquor on polling day.
6. Party in Power Restrictions
- Prohibits the use of official positions for election campaign purposes.
- Ensures equitable use of public places, rest houses, and government accommodation.
- Restricts announcements of financial grants, promises, or ad-hoc appointments influencing voters.
7. Guidelines on Election Manifestos
- Manifestos should adhere to constitutional ideals and be consistent with the Model Code of Conduct.
- Encourages transparency and credibility, reflecting rationale and financial plans.
- Prohibits the release of manifestos during specific prohibitory periods.
What are the Pros and Cons of Model Code of Conduct
We have added all major Pros and Cons of Model Code of Conduct below-
| Pros of Model Code of Conduct | Cons of Model Code of Conduct |
| 1. Fair Elections: Ensures fair and transparent elections by regulating the conduct of political parties and candidates. | 1. Enforcement Challenges: Enforcement can be challenging, and violations may not always be effectively addressed, leading to potential loopholes. |
| 2. Level Playing Field: Creates a level playing field by preventing the misuse of power by the party in office, reducing the chances of an unfair advantage. | 2. Restriction on Free Speech: Some argue that the code restricts the freedom of speech of political parties and candidates during the election period. |
| 3. Ethical Conduct: Encourages ethical conduct by discouraging hate speech, personal attacks, and divisive campaigning, fostering a healthier political environment. | 3. Ambiguity in Guidelines: The guidelines may be interpreted differently, leading to ambiguity in certain situations and potential disputes. |
| 4. Public Confidence: Enhances public confidence in the electoral process by promoting responsible behavior and preventing corrupt practices. | 4. Limited Legal Authority: The code lacks legal backing, making it more of a moral guideline than a legally binding document. |
| 5. Prevents Misuse of Resources: Restricts the misuse of government resources for election purposes, preventing an unfair advantage for the party in power. | 5. Prohibitory Period Challenges: Prohibitory periods for manifesto releases may affect the timely communication of party agendas to voters. |
| 6. Transparency: Promotes transparency in election campaigns by regulating the use of loudspeakers, vehicles, and other resources. | 6. Varying State Compliance: Compliance with the code may vary among states, leading to inconsistencies in its application. |
| 7. Protects Privacy: Respects the privacy of individuals by discouraging activities that disturb their home life during the election period. | 7. Difficulty in Adjudication: Resolving disputes and adjudicating violations may be time-consuming, affecting the immediacy of corrective actions. |
| 8. Prevents Communal Tensions: Prohibits appeals to caste or communal feelings, reducing the likelihood of creating tensions between different groups. | 8. Influence of Money Power: While it addresses some aspects, the code may not completely eliminate the influence of money power in elections. |
| 9. Consistency in Guidelines: Provides consistent guidelines for conduct across various stages of the electoral process, ensuring uniformity. | 9. Incomplete Coverage: Some argue that the code does not cover all aspects of unethical conduct, leaving room for certain activities to go unchecked. |
| 10. Adaptable to Changing Needs: Can be adapted to address emerging challenges and changing political dynamics, ensuring relevance. | 10. Lack of Statutory Authority: The absence of statutory authority limits the code’s legal standing and enforceability. |
Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
We have added all the Provisions of Model Code of Conduct below-
I. General Conduct – Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
Avoiding Division
Parties and candidates can’t do things that make different groups dislike each other.
Being Fair in Criticism
It’s okay to criticize other parties, but only about their work and plans. No personal attacks or lies about private lives.
No Religion or Caste Appeals
Parties can’t use religion or caste to get votes. Also, no talking about elections in places of worship.
Playing by the Rules
Everyone must follow the election rules. No bribing, scaring voters, or campaigning too close to voting places.
Respecting People’s Privacy
People have a right to a quiet home life. Parties must respect that, no matter their political opinions.
No Protests at Homes
Protests or picketing at people’s homes because of their opinions are not allowed.
Getting Permission for Campaigning
Parties need permission to use someone’s property for campaign stuff like flags or banners.
Keeping Order at Events
Parties need to make sure their supporters don’t disrupt events of other parties. No questioning or causing trouble.
Respecting Others’ Campaign Material
Parties can’t remove or damage campaign stuff (posters, etc.) of other parties. Everyone’s material should be safe.
II. Meetings – Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
Informing Police in Advance
Parties or candidates must tell the local police about the meeting’s location and time early. This helps the police manage traffic and keep things peaceful.
Checking for Restrictions
Before planning a meeting, parties should check if there are any rules or bans in that area. If there are, they must follow them strictly. If they need an exception, they should ask for it early.
Getting Permissions on Time
If a party wants to use loudspeakers or other things for a meeting, they should ask for permission from the authorities well before the meeting. This includes getting a license.
Seeking Police Help
Meeting organizers should always ask the on-duty police for help if there are people causing trouble or trying to create chaos. The organizers themselves shouldn’t handle such situations.
III. Procession – Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
Planning in Advance
Parties or candidates arranging a procession should decide the start time, route, and end time beforehand. Stick to the plan with no last-minute changes.
Informing the Police
Organizers must tell the local police about the procession plans early. This helps police make necessary arrangements for security.
Checking for Restrictions
Before the procession, organizers should find out if there are any rules or bans in the areas they’ll pass through. Follow these rules unless there’s special permission.
Traffic Management
Steps should be taken to ensure the procession doesn’t block traffic. If it’s a long procession, organize it in segments to avoid traffic congestion.
Keeping to the Right
Processions should stay on the right side of the road. Follow the guidance of on-duty police strictly.
Avoiding Clashes
If multiple parties plan processions on the same route, they should contact each other and the police early to avoid clashes and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Control Over Participants
Organizers must control participants to prevent misuse of items that could cause trouble, especially in exciting moments.
No Effigy Burning
Parties or candidates shouldn’t burn effigies or do any demonstrations that represent members of other parties. This is not allowed.
IV. Polling Day – Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
Cooperation with Election Officers
Political parties and candidates must work with election officers to ensure a peaceful and orderly polling process. Voters should have complete freedom to cast their votes without any disturbances.
Identification Measures
Parties should provide suitable badges or identity cards to their authorized workers. The identity slips given to voters should be on plain (white) paper without any symbols, candidate names, or party names.
Prohibition on Liquor Distribution
No liquor should be served or distributed by political parties or candidates on polling day and 48 hours before it.
Avoiding Unnecessary Crowds
Parties should prevent unnecessary crowds near their camps at polling booths to avoid conflicts and tension among party workers and supporters.
Simplicity of Candidate’s Camps
Candidate camps should be simple and not display posters, flags, symbols, or any propaganda material. No food should be served, and crowds should be kept away.
Cooperation on Vehicle Restrictions
Parties must cooperate with authorities in adhering to restrictions on vehicle movement on polling day. Permits for vehicles should be obtained and prominently displayed.
V. Polling Booth – Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
Appointment of Election Observers
The Election Commission appoints Observers to oversee the polling process. These Observers play a crucial role in ensuring the fairness and transparency of elections.
Complaint Resolution
If candidates or their agents encounter any specific issues or have complaints related to the conduct of elections, they have the right to bring these concerns to the attention of the appointed Observer. The Observer serves as an impartial authority to address and resolve such complaints, contributing to the integrity of the electoral process.
VI. Party in Power – Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
Ensuring Fair Play
The party in power, whether at the central or state level, is obligated to avoid actions that could lead to complaints of unfair use of official influence for election purposes.
Restrictions on Ministers
- Ministers are barred from combining official visits with electioneering work. They should refrain from using official machinery or personnel for campaign activities.
- Government transport, including official aircraft, vehicles, machinery, and personnel, should not be utilized to benefit the party in power during elections.
Equal Access to Public Spaces
Public places like grounds for meetings and helipads for air-flights related to elections should not be exclusively controlled by the ruling party. Other parties and candidates should have fair access under similar terms.
Fair Use of Accommodation
Rest houses, dak bungalows, and other government accommodations should not be monopolized by the party in power. These facilities must be shared fairly with other parties and candidates. However, using such accommodation for campaign offices or election propaganda is strictly prohibited.
Avoidance of Misuse of Public Funds
The issuance of advertisements at the expense of public funds in newspapers and other media, along with the misuse of official mass media for biased political coverage, is strictly prohibited during the election period.
Financial Restraints on Ministers
Ministers and authorities are restricted from making financial grants, promises, laying foundation stones, making promises related to development projects, or engaging in ad-hoc appointments in government or public undertakings from the time elections are announced until their conclusion.
Ministerial Conduct During Voting
Ministers of central or state governments are not allowed to enter any polling station or place of counting except in their capacity as a candidate, voter, or authorized agent. This provision ensures a fair and unbiased electoral process.
VII. Guidelines on Election Manifestos – Provisions of Model Code of Conduct
Background
The Supreme Court, in its judgment dated 5th July 2013, directed the Election Commission to formulate guidelines for election manifestos. The aim is to ensure fairness, a level playing field, and uphold the purity of the election process. The Commission, respecting the constitutional mandate, held consultations with political parties, taking into account conflicting views.
Directive Principles
- Manifestos must align with the ideals and principles of the Constitution and be consistent with the letter and spirit of the Model Code of Conduct.
- While manifestos can promise welfare measures in line with the Directive Principles of State Policy, parties should avoid pledges likely to compromise the election process or unduly influence voters.
Transparency and Credibility
Manifestos should transparently outline the rationale behind promises and indicate how financial requirements will be met. Trust should be sought only for promises that are realistically achievable.
Prohibitory Period
- In single-phase elections, manifestos should not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
- In multi-phase elections, manifestos should not be released during the prohibitory periods of all phases, as per Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Source – https://www.eci.gov.in/mcc/
Who was T.N. Seshan?
Tirunellai Narayana Iyer Seshan, commonly known as T.N. Seshan, was an illustrious Indian civil servant and the 10th Chief Election Commissioner of India, serving from 1990 to 1996.
Born on December 15, 1932, in Palakkad, Kerala, Seshan earned a reputation as a principled and assertive bureaucrat who significantly transformed the landscape of Indian elections.
Seshan’s tenure as Chief Election Commissioner was marked by a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at enhancing the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
His unwavering commitment to free and fair elections led to the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, stringent implementation of election laws, and the introduction of electoral reforms.
Under his leadership, the Election Commission gained unprecedented autonomy and authority.
A distinguished officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Seshan’s impact extended beyond elections. He served in various crucial positions, including the Cabinet Secretary of India.
T.N. Seshan’s legacy remains as a stalwart defender of democracy, leaving an indelible mark on the Indian electoral system through his tireless efforts to uphold the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution.
T.N. Seshan passed away on November 10, 2019, but his contributions to Indian democracy continue to be remembered and celebrated.
T.N. Seshan Biography – T.N. Seshan Complete Details
| Fact | Description |
| Born | Tirunellai Narayana Iyer Seshan on 15 December 1932 in Palghat, Kerala, British India (present-day Kerala, India). |
| Died | 10 November 2019, aged 86, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. |
| Spouse | Jayalakshmi Seshan (married in 1959; she passed away in 2018). |
| Alma Mater | Madras Christian College and Harvard University. |
| Occupation | Bureaucrat. |
| Awards | Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1996 for government service. |
| Chief Election Commissioner | 10th Chief Election Commissioner of India from 12 December 1990 to 11 December 1996. |
| Prime Ministers Served Under | Chandra Shekhar, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, H.D. Deve Gowda. |
| Cabinet Secretary | 18th Cabinet Secretary of India from 27 March 1989 to 23 December 1989. |
| Predecessor (Cabinet Secretary) | B. G. Deshmukh. |
| Successor (Cabinet Secretary) | V. C. Pande. |
| Birthplace | Tirunellai Narayana Iyer Seshan was born in Palghat, Malabar District, British India. |
| Education | Completed his Bachelor of Science (Honors) degree in physics from Madras Christian College and later studied at Harvard University. |
| Joined IAS | Joined the IAS as a trainee of the 1955 Tamil Nadu cadre. |
| Early Career | Served as an apprentice administrator, assistant collector, sub-collector in Dindigul, and director of programs in the Secretariat for Rural Development in Madras. |
| Director of Transport | Appointed as the director of transport of Madras (now Tamil Nadu) in 1962. |
| Harvard University | Studied at Harvard University on Edward S. Mason Fellowship, earning a master’s degree in public administration in 1968. |
| Secretary to Atomic Energy Commission | Appointed as secretary to the Atomic Energy Commission after returning from Harvard. |
| Joint Secretary at the Department of Space | Served as joint secretary at the Department of Space from 1972 to 1976. |
| Positions in Tamil Nadu | Returned to Tamil Nadu and served as the state’s secretary of industries and agriculture. Later appointed as the secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. |
| Opposition to Dams | Opposed the Tehri dam and Sardar Sarovar dam on the Narmada river during his tenure. |
| Cabinet Secretary Appointment | Appointed as the 18th Cabinet Secretary in 1989, the senior-most position in the Indian civil service hierarchy. |
| Planning Commission | Served as a member of the Planning Commission. |
| Ramon Magsaysay Award | Won the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1996 for government service, particularly for his role as Chief Election Commissioner. |
| Education Advocate | Served as a member of the Oil and Natural Gas Commission, and later served as additional secretary to the Department of Space. |
| Secretary of Internal Security | Appointed as secretary of Internal Security, also served as secretary of the Ministry of Defence for ten months. |
| Later Career | Appointed as a member of Planning Commission and held various positions in the Indian civil service. |
Model Code of Conduct Frequently Asked Questions – Model Code of Conduct UPSC Questions
Question-1: What is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?
Answer. The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India that political parties and candidates must adhere to during elections to ensure fair and ethical conduct.
Question-2: When does the Model Code of Conduct come into effect?
Answer. The Model Code of Conduct comes into effect as soon as the election dates are announced by the Election Commission and remains in force until the completion of the electoral process.
Question-3: What are the key objectives of the Model Code of Conduct?
Answer. The primary objectives are to ensure a level playing field for all political parties, prevent malpractices, maintain the dignity of the electoral process, and create a conducive environment for free and fair elections.
Question-4: Are there any restrictions on campaigning during the Model Code of Conduct?
Answer. Yes, there are restrictions on the timing, content, and manner of campaigning. For example, there are limitations on the use of government resources, inflammatory speeches, and the conduct of rallies near polling booths.
Question-5: Can the Model Code of Conduct be enforced legally?
Answer. While the Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines, its enforcement is not legally binding. However, violation of the code can lead to actions such as reprimands, censure, or even the withdrawal of recognition of a political party.
Question-6: Does the Model Code of Conduct apply only to political parties?
Answer. No, it applies to both political parties and individual candidates. All contestants, their agents, and supporters are expected to adhere to the guidelines.
Question-7: Can the Model Code of Conduct be modified?
Answer. The Election Commission can modify or add to the Model Code of Conduct as per the evolving needs of the electoral process. Such modifications are communicated to all political parties.
Question-8: Are there guidelines for election manifestos under the Model Code of Conduct?
Answer. Yes, there are guidelines to ensure that election manifestos adhere to constitutional ideals, do not make promises that could vitiate the election process, and maintain transparency regarding financial requirements.
Question-9: How does the Model Code of Conduct address issues related to the misuse of government machinery?
Answer. The Model Code of Conduct prohibits the use of official machinery, resources, and personnel for electioneering purposes. Ministers and government officials are expected to refrain from combining official visits with election campaigning.
Question-10: What actions can be taken for violating the Model Code of Conduct?
Answer. Violations can lead to actions such as warnings, notices, or even more severe measures like the filing of criminal cases. The Election Commission has the authority to take appropriate action based on the severity of the violation.
Question-11: Can religious places be used for election propaganda under the Model Code of Conduct?
Answer. No, religious places such as mosques, churches, temples, etc., cannot be used for election propaganda as per the Model Code of Conduct.
Question-12: Are there restrictions on the use of loudspeakers during election campaigns?
Answer. Yes, parties and candidates must obtain permission for the use of loudspeakers in connection with any proposed meeting. The timing and volume are regulated to avoid disturbances.
Question-13: How does the Model Code of Conduct address the issue of personal attacks and criticism during campaigns?
Answer. Criticism of other parties should be confined to policies, past records, and work. Personal attacks or criticism of private life unrelated to public activities should be avoided.
Question-14: Can political parties organize demonstrations in front of individuals’ houses during elections?
Answer. No, organizing demonstrations or picketing before individuals’ houses to protest against their opinions or activities is strictly prohibited.
Question-15: What steps should be taken by organizers of processions under the Model Code of Conduct?
Answer. Organizers should inform local authorities in advance, adhere to prescribed routes, and ensure that processions do not obstruct traffic or clash with other political parties’ processions.
Question-16: How does the Model Code of Conduct ensure the privacy of voters on polling day?
Answer. It prohibits activities such as bribing voters, intimidation, and canvassing within 100 meters of polling stations to ensure voters can exercise their franchise freely.
Question-17: Can political parties make promises of financial grants or announce projects during elections?
Answer. No, from the time elections are announced, political parties, especially those in power, should refrain from making promises of financial grants, announcing projects, or laying foundation stones.
Question-18: Are there guidelines on the use of government accommodations during elections?
Answer. Yes, government accommodations like rest houses and dak bungalows should not be monopolized by the party in power. Fair use by all parties and candidates is encouraged.
Question-19: How does the Model Code of Conduct address issues related to election-related violence or disturbances?
Answer. Political parties are expected to ensure their supporters do not create obstructions, disturbances, or violence at public meetings organized by other parties.
Question-20: Can the Election Commission modify the Model Code of Conduct during an ongoing election?
Answer. Yes, the Election Commission has the authority to modify or issue additional guidelines to the Model Code of Conduct during an ongoing election to address emerging issues or challenges.
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