ECI issues directions for strict implementation of Model Code of Conduct for the general elections in 5 States/UT and bye-elections in 6 States

**Executive Summary** The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued directions for the immediate implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) following the March 15, 2026, announcement of General Elections in five States/UTs and bye-elections in six states. These directions mandate strict adherence to campaign ethics, the impartial conduct of officials, and the prohibition of misusing government resources. Key actions include the activation of monitoring systems and digital platforms for grievance redressal and resource allocation. **Key Points / Main Content** **MCC Enforcement and Scope** * The MCC is in effect immediately across Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. * The code applies to the Central Government regarding any announcements or policy decisions pertaining to these States/UTs. * Officials at all levels are required to act impartially, ensuring equal treatment of all parties and maintaining the credibility of the electoral process. **Use of Resources and Property** * Defacement of government, public, and private property must be removed. * Official vehicles, machinery, personnel, and government accommodation cannot be used for electioneering or campaign purposes. * Advertisements at the cost of the public exchequer are strictly prohibited. * Ministers are forbidden from combining official duties with electioneering activities. **Public Order and Citizen Rights** * The privacy of citizens must be respected, specifically banning demonstrations or picketing outside private residences. * Campaign materials like flags or banners cannot be placed on private property without the owner's explicit consent. * Political parties must inform police in advance of meetings and processions to coordinate security and traffic. **Monitoring and Digital Tools** * **Complaints:** A monitoring system is active via Call Centre number 1950 and the C-Vigil App for reporting MCC violations. * **Response:** Over 5,173 Flying Squads and 5,200 Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) are deployed to address complaints within a 100-minute target. * **SUVIDHA Module:** This platform on ECINET allows political parties to apply for public spaces (maidans, helipads) on a first-come, first-served basis. **Impact Analysis** **Political Parties and Candidates** **Impact** They are restricted from using state resources and must adhere to strict guidelines regarding public demonstrations and property use. **Action Required** Parties must use the SUVIDHA module for venue bookings, obtain prior police permissions for events, and ensure all campaign materials on private property have owner consent. **Ministers and Government Officials** **Impact** Ministers lose the ability to use official machinery for campaigns, while officials are under scrutiny to remain neutral. **Action Required** Ministers must separate official duties from campaigning; officials must enforce MCC strictly and regulate meetings and polling arrangements fairly. **General Public** **Impact** Citizens are protected from campaign-related harassment at their residences and have direct channels to report electoral violations. **Action Required** Citizens may report MCC violations using the 1950 Call Centre or the C-Vigil App.

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