The Model Code of Conduct for the 2024 Parliamentary Elections was announced by the Election Commission of India.
The Model Code of Conduct went into force announced by ECI that nations would vote in seven phases from 19 April to 1 June and the result will be announced on June 4, 2024.
Know about the Model Code of Conduct?
It is containing guidelines for political parties and candidates before elections by the Election Commission of India. To ensure that free and fair elections are held, several rules are in place regarding speeches, polling day, polling stations, portfolios, the substance of electoral processions, and general conduct.
The MCC went into force from the date the election schedule was announced until the date that results were released.
What Activities Are Prevented After MCC Impose?
The MCC has been dealing with general conduct, meetings, polling day, polling booths, observers, the party in power, and election manifestos.
When Criticism of other political parties, shall be confined to their policies and program, track record, and work.
No caste or communal sentiments may be used to gain support. Places of religion such as churches, mosques, temples, or others cannot serve as platforms for election propaganda.
Once the dates for the Lok Sabha elections are announced by ECI, Ministers and other candidates are also prohibited from laying foundation stones or starting projects or schemes of any type except civil servants.
Following the enactment of the Model Code of Conduct, no initiative or plan that could influence voters to support the ruling party may be disclosed.
The ECI prevents the publication of advertising in newspapers that are funded by government newspapers and other media during the election period.
Ministers are also not allowed to use government assets for political campaigning, or holding public meetings for election propaganda by any party, as prevented by the poll body.
The misuse of mass media for political news coverage and achievement publicity benefits the ruling.
What happens if a candidate or party breaks the MCC?
The Model Code of Conduct isn’t a legal document. It’s a guideline from the Election Commission to ensure fair polls. Violations may result in criticism, but not in legal issues. However, certain articles in other statutes, such as the Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1973, and the Representation of the People Act of 1951, may provide enforcement for certain provisions contained in it.
Additionally, the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order of 1968’s paragraph 16A grants the ECI the power to withdraw or suspend a party’s recognition.
Which states implement the MCC first?
Kerala is the first state in India to implement the MCC in its 1960 elections.
