INVC NEWS
New Delhi : The Election Commission outlines a clear code of conduct for free, fair, and unbiased elections. Learn about its key provisions as five states gear up for their polls. The Election Commission has announced the dates of assembly elections to be held in the coming days in five states including Madhya Pradesh. Along with this, the code of conduct has also come into force in these states. Therefore, in these states the Prime Minister, Chief Minister and Ministers will neither be able to make any announcement nor will there be any foundation stone laying, inauguration or Bhoomi Pujan programs. Let us tell you in detail what can and cannot happen when the code of conduct is implemented.
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Why is the code of conduct applicable?
To conduct free and fair elections, rules are made by the Election Commission and these rules are called code of conduct. The government, leaders and political parties have to follow these rules during elections.
When does the code of conduct come into force?
The code of conduct comes into force after the announcement of election dates and remains in force till the end of the election process.
Where is the provision in the Constitution?
The Election Commission ensures compliance by the ruling parties and candidates for free, fair and peaceful elections to the Parliament and State Legislatures under Article 324 of the Constitution of India. It is also ensured that government machinery is not misused during elections.
Main rules of code of conduct?
Government funds are not used to benefit any particular political party or candidate.
Government aircraft or government bungalows cannot be used for election campaigning.
Government announcements, inaugurations and foundation stones are put on hold.
No leader can ask for votes in the name of religion or caste in an election rally.
No government vehicle including aircraft, vehicles etc. will be used to benefit the interests of any party or candidate.
Transfers of all officers directly or indirectly associated with the election process remain on hold.
If transfer of any officer is necessary, then it is mandatory to take permission from the Election Commission.
Ministers will not be able to include their official tour in election campaign work nor will they use government machinery in election campaign work.
No government vehicle will be used to benefit any candidate of any party.
No Central or State Government Minister will be able to call any officer engaged in election work for official discussion.
No minister will be allowed to use pilot car or beacon light of any color on personal or official tour during elections.
Funds under the scheme will not be released from the MLA MP Fund during elections.
The Election Commission operates under the aegis of Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, which empowers it to ensure that elections to both the Parliament and State Legislatures are conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner. One of its core responsibilities is to prevent the misuse of governmental resources during elections.
