New Delhi, March 15: The Election Commission of India (ECI) implemented the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) on Sunday, immediately following the announcement of assembly elections in four states and one union territory. The commission has prohibited the release of funds under the local area development schemes for legislators and MPs and has instructed the removal of ministers’ photographs from official websites.
In letters sent to the central cabinet secretaries and chief secretaries of the election-bound states, the ECI demanded the immediate enforcement of MCC provisions related to the distortion of private and public property, misuse of public spaces, misuse of government vehicles, advertising at the expense of the public treasury, and the removal of political officials’ images from official websites.
The ECI stated, “Activities for monitoring and enforcing the expenditure of the Model Code of Conduct, including flying squads, FST, and video surveillance teams, as well as thorough inspections of alcohol, cash, and restricted drugs, should be activated immediately following the announcement.”
The commission also directed that a 24/7 control room at the district level be activated immediately, ensuring adequate manpower and logistical support from the District Election Officer (DEO) and Chief Election Officer (CEO).
Furthermore, the commission instructed that after the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, ministers should not combine their official tours with election campaigning and must not use official machinery or personnel for election-related activities.
It warned that government transport, including official aircraft, vehicles, machinery, and personnel, should not be used to advance the interests of the ruling party.
Regarding development projects, the commission stated that no new withdrawals of funds would be permitted under the local area development scheme for Members of Parliament (including Rajya Sabha members) or for legislators or MLCs in any part of the country where elections are ongoing until the election process is completed.
The commission also directed the formation of a screening committee led by the chief secretary of each state, which will review MCC-related proposals received from the CEO or various departments before forwarding them to the commission.
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