With the State Election Commission announcing the schedule for Municipal Council and Nagar Panchayat elections, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has officially come into force — putting a strict check on ministers, political leaders, and government machinery across all poll-bound areas. From this moment, no new schemes, grants, or promises can be made. The election season’s first and strongest message is clear — no more misuse of power, no more populist gimmicks.
The MCC, a legally binding code of political discipline, ensures that elections are conducted in a fair and corruption-free environment. It bars the ruling establishment from using its authority to influence voters. Under the code, the government cannot announce any new financial assistance, inaugurate new projects, or make fresh appointments in any department. Even using official vehicles, staff, or government premises for political activity is now prohibited.
For candidates and political parties, the rules are equally tough. Every pamphlet, poster, and social media post must be pre-approved by the election committee. Using children or animals for campaigning is banned, and every piece of printed material must carry the name of the printer and publisher.
The administration, too, is under tight scrutiny. Officers must ensure law and order, prevent clashes between rival rallies, and maintain accurate expenditure records for each candidate.
Spending limits have also been capped — ₹15 lakh for ‘A’ class council presidents and ₹2.25 lakh for Nagar Panchayat members.
Violating the MCC comes at a steep cost: disqualification from elections, and in serious offences like bribing voters, imprisonment of up to five years. The Election Commission has warned — no one is above the law this election season.
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