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Model Code of Conduct for Conducting Processions Responsibly

 

In the vibrant landscape of Indian elections, processions play a significant role in political campaigns. However, there are guidelines in the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for conducting these processions in a manner that upholds the integrity of the electoral process and ensures public safety. 

The MCC of the Election Commission of India (ECI) is a set of guidelines issued to regulate political parties and candidates prior to elections.

The MCC comes into force from the date the election schedule is announced until the date that results are out.

Guidelines For Organizing processions in accordance with the Model Code of Conduct:


1. Planning in Advance: Parties or candidates planning a procession must decide on the time, starting point, route, and endpoint beforehand. It's crucial to stick to the planned program without deviations whenever possible.

2. Notifying Authorities: Organizers should inform local police authorities in advance about the procession's schedule, allowing them to make necessary arrangements for crowd control and traffic management.

3. Compliance with Regulations: Parties or candidates should check for any restrictive orders in the areas where the procession will pass and ensure compliance unless specifically exempted by the competent authority. The are expected to adhere to traffic regulations to avoid disruptions.

4. Traffic Management: Parties or candidates are required to take proactive steps to ensure smooth traffic flow during the procession. If the procession is lengthy, it should be organized into manageable segments to prevent congestion, especially at road junctions.

5. Cooperation with Police: Political parties or candidates should follow the guidance of on-duty police officers regarding procession management and route directions. Parties or candidates should establish communication with other parties or candidates if multiple processions are planned on the same route to prevent clashes or traffic disruptions.

6. Control of Participants: Political parties or candidates are expected to exercise control over procession participants to prevent the carrying of items that could be misused or incite violence. Effigies representing members of other parties or leaders should not be carried or burnt in public, as such actions go against the principles of responsible conduct.

By adhering to these guidelines, political parties and candidates can demonstrate their commitment to conducting campaigns in a manner that respects public order, ensures the safety of all individuals involved, and upholds the democratic values of the electoral process.

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