New Delhi, March 16 (UNI) The Election Commission of India on Monday issued detailed directions for the strict implementation of the Model Code of Conduct following the announcement of Assembly elections in five states and a union Territory, along with bye-elections in six other states.
The poll panel had on March 15 announced the schedule for general elections to the legislative assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, along with the union Territory of Puducherry. According to the Commission, notifications for the elections were issued and published in the official gazettes for Assam, Kerala and Puducherry on Monday.
“With the announcement of the election schedule, the Model Code of Conduct has come into immediate effect in the concerned States/UT,” the Commission said in a press note, adding that the provisions will also apply to the Central Government in relation to policy decisions and announcements affecting the poll-bound regions.
The Commission directed the Chief Secretaries and Chief Electoral Officers of the respective states and the union Territory to ensure strict adherence to the code. It instructed authorities to immediately remove political defacement from government, public and private properties and prevent the misuse of official vehicles or government accommodation by political parties, candidates or any other individuals involved in election activities.
The poll body also emphasised that advertisements funded by the public exchequer would be prohibited during the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. “Strict compliance with instructions related to removal of defacement and misuse of official resources must be ensured,” the Commission said.
Underscoring citizens’ rights during the election period, the Commission said privacy must be respected and that demonstrations or picketing outside private residences would not be allowed. It further stated that land, buildings or walls should not be used for political flags, banners or posters without the consent of the property owner.
To ensure prompt action against violations, the Commission said a complaint monitoring system has been activated, including a call centre helpline number 1950 through which members of the public and political parties can lodge complaints with the District Election Officer or Returning Officer concerned.
The Commission also urged citizens to use the cVIGIL mobile application available on ECINET to report violations of the Model Code of Conduct. “Over 5,173 flying squads have been deployed across the States/UTs to ensure complaints are attended to within 100 minutes,” the Commission said, adding that more than 5,200 Static Surveillance Teams have also been deployed to monitor compliance.
Political parties have been asked to inform police authorities in advance about public meetings and processions so that traffic and security arrangements can be made. They are also required to obtain necessary permissions for the use of loudspeakers and other facilities and comply with any prohibitory orders in force.
The Commission further reiterated that ministers must not combine official duties with election campaigning or use government machinery, vehicles or personnel for campaign purposes. “Officials at all levels have been directed to act impartially in enforcing the Model Code of Conduct and ensure equal treatment of all political parties,” it said.
The poll body added that arrangements related to meetings, processions and polling must be regulated fairly while maintaining law and order and safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process.
To streamline campaign-related permissions, the Commission said the SUVIDHA module has been activated on ECINET, enabling political parties to apply online for the use of public spaces such as maidans and helipads. These facilities will be allotted on a first-come, first-served basis, the Commission added.
