As assembly elections approach this September, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a term increasingly mentioned in public discussions. However, many voters remain unclear about what the MCC entails, what it regulates, and how it impacts political parties, candidates, and the general public during elections. This article aims to provide a clear and concise understanding of the MCC, its historical background, and the rules that govern what is permissible and prohibited during the election period.

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines established by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure that elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner. The MCC is designed to maintain the integrity of the electoral process by regulating the behaviour of political parties, candidates, and the government during the election period. The primary purpose of the MCC is to prevent the misuse of official power and resources, ensure a level playing field for all candidates, and uphold the principles of democracy.
The MCC comes into effect the day the election schedule is announced by the Election Commission and remains in force until the entire election process is completed. It applies to all political parties, candidates, and the ruling government, covering a wide range of activities to prevent any unfair advantage during the elections.
The origins of the MCC can be traced back to the 1960s. It was first introduced by the Kerala Assembly in 1960 with the aim of ensuring that the electoral process remained unbiased and ethical. Initially, the MCC was a voluntary code of ethics that political parties agreed to follow. However, over time, its scope and significance have expanded significantly. The Election Commission of India officially adopted the MCC in 1968, and it has since been revised multiple times to address emerging challenges in the electoral process.
The decision to enforce the MCC more rigorously by the ECI was prompted by growing concerns about the misuse of government resources, the influence of money and muscle power, and the need to maintain a fair electoral environment. Over the years, the MCC has become a crucial component of the Indian electoral process, playing a significant role in ensuring that elections are conducted fairly. The MCC now includes various provisions that regulate the conduct of political parties and candidates, thereby minimizing the potential for electoral malpractice.
The MCC covers a broad spectrum of activities, providing detailed guidelines on what political parties, candidates, and the government can and cannot do once the election schedule is announced. One of the key areas the MCC regulates is government announcements and policy decisions. Once the MCC is in force, the ruling government is prohibited from making any policy announcements or introducing new projects that could influence voters. This includes announcements related to new welfare schemes, financial grants, or other initiatives that could sway public opinion. The government is also barred from using its official position to benefit any particular party or candidate. For example, no official resources such as vehicles, buildings, or funds can be used for electioneering purposes.
Campaigning and electioneering are also closely regulated by the MCC. Political parties and candidates are required to conduct their campaigns in a manner that respects the dignity of the electoral process. The use of defamatory language, personal attacks, or incitement of communal or caste-based sentiments is strictly prohibited. Public meetings, rallies, and other campaign activities must adhere to local laws and respect the rights of other candidates and parties. The MCC also regulates the use of loudspeakers, banners, and posters to ensure that campaigning does not disrupt public order.
Advertising and media conduct during the election period are other important aspects regulated by the MCC. The guidelines require that political advertisements in the media must not contain false or misleading information. All advertisements in electronic media must be pre-certified by the Election Commission. With the rise of social media as a campaigning tool, the MCC has extended its reach to online platforms as well. Political parties and candidates are expected to adhere to the same standards of conduct online as they do offline.
The MCC also emphasizes the need for peaceful and orderly conduct at polling stations. Any form of intimidation or coercion of voters is strictly forbidden. The distribution of liquor, money, or other inducements to voters is a serious violation of the MCC. Political parties and candidates are expected to engage with voters through constructive dialogue and discussions on their policies and programs rather than through unethical means.
Government officials play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth conduct of elections, and the MCC sets clear guidelines for their conduct as well. During the election period, government officials must remain neutral and are prohibited from engaging in any activity that could be seen as favouring a particular party or candidate. Transfers and postings of officials directly involved in the election process are generally avoided to prevent any undue influence on the conduct of elections. The use of government transport, machinery, and other resources for electioneering purposes is strictly prohibited. Government vehicles cannot be used to ferry voters or transport party workers for campaign purposes.
The MCC also regulates the conduct and publication of opinion polls and exit polls. While opinion polls can be conducted, their results cannot be published or broadcasted during the period specified by the Election Commission, usually starting from 48 hours before the voting day. Exit polls, which are conducted after the voting process, cannot be published until all phases of voting are complete. This is to ensure that the results of earlier phases do not influence voters in subsequent phases.
While the MCC is not a statutory law, meaning it is not enforceable in a court of law, violations of the MCC can lead to severe consequences. The Election Commission has the authority to issue warnings, censures, or even disqualify candidates who breach the MCC. In cases of severe violations, the Election Commission can order re-polling in affected areas. The ECI can also direct government officials to take corrective action if a violation involves the misuse of official machinery. Additionally, the Commission can request political parties to remove advertisements or materials that violate the MCC guidelines. Media organizations that fail to adhere to the guidelines for political advertising and reporting can face action from the Election Commission, which may include suspension of their broadcasts or publications during the election period.
The MCC plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process in India. By regulating the conduct of political parties, candidates, and government officials, it ensures that elections are conducted in a transparent and unbiased manner. The MCC helps to create a level playing field, where all candidates have an equal opportunity to reach out to voters without the influence of money, muscle power, or official machinery. For the general public, understanding the MCC is crucial as it empowers them to recognize and report any violations they may witness during the election period. Citizens play a vital role in upholding the principles of the MCC by staying informed and vigilant, ensuring that the elections reflect the true will of the people.
As the assembly elections approach this September, the Model Code of Conduct will once again come into play, guiding the actions of political parties, candidates, and the government. By adhering to the MCC, all stakeholders can contribute to the conduct of free, fair, and transparent elections, reinforcing the democratic values that underpin the Indian electoral system.

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