Lok Sabha elections 2024: What is the model code of conduct? Why is it mandatory before every election?

The MCC restricts the government from announcing any populist plans before the election. (document)

After the Election Commission of India declares the elections, it will implement the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), a set of guidelines for candidates and political parties during elections. The MCC, which aims to ensure fair elections, will remain in place until the results are announced.

Candidates and political parties must strictly adhere to MCC guidelines and in case of violation, ECI can take action. The MCC also restricted the government from announcing any populist plans in the run-up to the election.

What is a model code of conduct?

The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission to regulate the campaigning activities of political parties and candidates during elections. Its main objective is to conduct free and fair elections by preventing any activity that could influence voters or disrupt the voting process.

What happens after implementing the Model Code of Conduct?

1. Candidates are not allowed to announce financial aid after election results are announced.
2. The government cannot start or lay the groundwork for new projects.
3. The authorities are unable to make commitments related to infrastructure development, such as building roads or providing drinking water facilities.
4. Temporary appointments in government or public utilities that could influence voters are prohibited.
5. The Minister or candidate cannot approve grants or payments from arbitrary funds.
6. The use of government resources, including transportation, machinery and security personnel, for campaigning is strictly prohibited.
7. Municipal authorities must allow electoral participants and politicians free access to public areas for gatherings on equal terms.
8. No political party or candidate shall use rest rooms, bungalows or other government facilities for voting purposes.
9. The use of official mass media to provide biased political reports and propaganda that benefits the ruling party is strictly prohibited.
10. Activities such as using caste and communal sentiments to influence voters, spreading rumors and trying to bribe or intimidate voters will not be allowed.

History of MCC

The Model Code of Conduct was first used during the 1960 Kerala Assembly elections. Following its success, the Election Commission extended it nationwide during the 1962 Lok Sabha elections. During the 1991 Lok Sabha elections, the poll panel decided to implement the MCC more strictly due to repeated violations of electoral norms and concerns about corruption.