MCC is set of regulations governing behavior of candidates, political parties

Candidates, political entities mandated to strictly adhere to MCC stipulations

Election Commission introduced MCC during the 1962 Lok Sabha elections

Upon the announcement of Lok Sabha elections by the Election Commission of India, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is swiftly enforced, comprising a set of regulations governing the behavior of candidates and political parties throughout the electoral process. The primary objective of the MCC is to ensure the integrity and fairness of the elections until the declaration of results.

Candidates and political entities are mandated to strictly adhere to the MCC stipulations, and any breaches may result in punitive measures by the Election Commission. Notably, the MCC also imposes restrictions on governments from initiating any populist initiatives in the lead-up to the election.

What constitutes the Model Code of Conduct?

The Model Code of Conduct delineates guidelines issued by the Election Commission to oversee the campaign activities of political parties and candidates during elections. Its principal objective is to facilitate impartial and transparent elections by forestalling activities that could sway voters or disrupt the electoral process.

Implications of the Enforced Model Code of Conduct:

1. Prohibition on candidates from announcing financial grants following the election announcement.
2. Prohibition on the government from launching new projects or laying foundation stones for new initiatives.
3. Restrictions on authorities from making promises regarding infrastructure development, such as road construction or provision of water facilities.
4. Prohibition on ad-hoc appointments in governmental or public entities that could potentially influence voters.
5. Prohibition on ministers or candidates from authorizing grants or payments from discretionary funds.
6. Strict prohibition on the utilization of government resources, including transportation, equipment, and security personnel, for election campaigning.
7. Mandate for municipalities to provide free access to public spaces for gatherings of electoral participants and politicians on equitable terms.
8. Prohibition on the utilization of rest houses, dak bungalows, or other government facilities for electoral purposes by any political entity.
9. Strict prohibition on the use of official mass media to disseminate biased news coverage or propaganda in favor of the ruling party.
10. Prohibition on activities such as exploiting caste and communal sentiments, spreading rumors, or attempting to bribe or intimidate voters.

Historical Context of the Model Code of Conduct:

The inception of the Model Code of Conduct dates back to its utilization during the 1960 Assembly elections in Kerala. Subsequently, recognizing its efficacy, the Election Commission introduced it nationwide during the 1962 Lok Sabha elections. By the 1991 Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission reinforced the implementation of the MCC, prompted by persistent violations of election norms and apprehensions regarding corrupt practices.