New Delhi, Mar 8: On 26th Feb, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the Assembly Poll dates for Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu. As soon as the dates for the elections are announced, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) comes into effect. All the contesting parties need to adhere to the rules laid out under MCC to ensure free and fair elections.
Citing the MCC rulebook, the ECI has asked the Central Government to remove PM Narendra Modi’s photo from the Covid-19 vaccination certificates in the poll bound states and UT (Union Territory), as the vaccination drive started on March 1 but by that time the MCC was already in effect.
The party in power whether in the Centre or in the State or States concerned cannot use its official power for the purpose of its election campaign including:
- While campaigning is allowed, Ministers cannot combine official visits with electioneering work.
- Total ban on the transfers and postings of all government officials directly or indirectly connected with the conduct of the election is put in effect.
- Fresh release of funds under various schemes is halted once MCC is in effect.
- Advertising regarding the achievements of a party at the cost of public exchequer (which tax funds and other public funds are deposited) is not allowed.
- Parties cannot lay down any new projector public initiatives.
- Using pictures of defense and military personnel for advertisement is also not allowed.