Model Code of Conduct - Key provisions

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) outlines guidelines for political parties, candidates, and governments during Indian elections to ensure fairness and prevent misuse of power. Issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI), it covers eight main parts, effective from election announcement until results.

 

General Conduct

 

Parties and candidates must confine criticism to rivals' policies, programs, and past records, avoiding personal attacks or unverified claims. Appeals based on caste, religion, race, or language are banned, as are corrupt practices like bribery, voter intimidation, or impersonation. No public meetings within 48 hours of poll end, and places of worship cannot be used for campaigning.

 

Meetings and Processions

 

Local police must be notified in advance of meetings for security. Processions require pre-coordination to avoid clashes; no arms, effigies, or provocative slogans allowed. Posters and banners need permission, with size limits and no defacement of others' materials.

 

Polling Day

 

Polling agents wear identity badges without party symbols. No canvassing, loitering, or distribution of cash, food, or liquor within 100 meters of booths. Parties cooperate with officials for orderly voting.

 

Polling Booths

 

Only voters, candidates, agents, and ECI-authorized personnel enter booths. Grievances go solely to ECI observers; no party interference in proceedings.

 

Observers

 

ECI-appointed observers (usually senior officials) oversee processes, hear complaints from candidates/agents, and report violations directly to the commission for action.​

 

Party in Power

 

Ruling parties cannot use official positions for campaigning: no new schemes, grants, or transfers post-announcement; ministers separate official visits from electioneering. No public funds for ads or achievements publicity.

 

Election Manifestos

 

Promises must avoid freebies that burden future exchequers unduly. Parties explain funding sources; no guarantees of public resources for electoral gain (per 2013 Supreme Court directive).

 

Media and Additional Guidelines

 

Updated MCC covers social media: no hate speech, fake news, or paid news. Exit polls banned during specified periods. Star campaigners tracked for violations.​