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Model Code of Conduct for Party in Power During Elections

 

In the democratic process, it's imperative for the party in power, whether at the national or state level, to maintain fairness and impartiality during elections. 

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) lays down specific guidelines to ensure that the incumbent party doesn't misuse its official position for electoral gains. 

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.


Model Code of Conduct for Party in Power During Elections:


1. Separation of Official Duties and Electioneering: Ministers are prohibited from blending their official duties with election campaign activities. They are barred from utilizing official resources or personnel for electioneering purposes.


2. Non-Partisan Use of Government Resources: Government resources such as transport, aircraft, machinery, and personnel should not be deployed to benefit the ruling party. Public places and facilities like grounds and helipads should be accessible to all parties and candidates on equal terms.


3. Fair Allocation of Government Accommodation: Rest houses, dak bungalows, and other government accommodations should not be monopolized by the ruling party or its candidates. Other parties and candidates should have fair access to such accommodations, ensuring they are not used for campaign purposes.


4. Avoidance of Partisan Publicity: Using public funds for advertisements and official mass media for partisan coverage of political news is strictly prohibited during the election period. Any misuse of official resources for promoting the ruling party's prospects must be avoided.


5. Restrictions on Ministerial Discretion: Ministers and authorities are prohibited from sanctioning grants or payments from discretionary funds once elections are announced. Similarly, they cannot announce financial grants, lay foundation stones, promise infrastructure projects, or make ad-hoc appointments that may influence voters in favor of the ruling party.


6. Protocol at Polling Stations: Ministers, whether at the central or state level, are restricted from entering polling stations or counting places except in their capacity as candidates, voters, or authorized agents.


By adhering to these regulations, the party in power is expected to uphold the principles of democracy, ensuring a level playing field for all contestants and maintaining public trust in the electoral process.

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