
The announcement of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 dates is scheduled for Saturday, signaling the implementation of the ‘Model Code of Conduct’ nationwide. Alongside the Lok Sabha Elections, states like Odisha, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh are gearing up for Assembly Elections, with the Election Commission set to unveil the corresponding dates.
The ‘Model Code of Conduct’ is a set of regulations formulated by the Election Commission to ensure the integrity of elections in India. All political parties are mandated to adhere to these rules during both Lok Sabha and Assembly Elections. Under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, the Election Commission possesses the authority to enforce this code, outlining permissible and prohibited activities for political entities.
Originating during the 1960 Kerala Assembly Elections, the ‘Model Code of Conduct’ was formally introduced to political parties during the 1962 Lok Sabha Elections and has since been applied during subsequent elections. Throughout the electoral process, employees of both state and central governments operate under the supervision of the Election Commission rather than the government, until the conclusion of the polls, after which the ‘Model Code of Conduct’ is rescinded.
Once the ‘Model Code of Conduct’ is enforced, ministers are restricted from conducting election rallies, limiting their use of government vehicles solely for essential commutes between home and office. Public funds cannot be utilized for events favoring a specific political party, and religious venues are prohibited from hosting political functions or rallies. Additionally, government personnel transfers require Election Commission approval during this period, while permissions for public gatherings and the use of loudspeakers must be obtained from local law enforcement, with a curfew on loudspeaker usage between 10 pm and 6 am.
Violations of the ‘Model Code of Conduct’ may lead to campaigning bans, electoral disqualification, or even criminal charges against offending parties or candidates. Furthermore, the code extends its jurisdiction beyond political entities, encompassing common individuals involved in campaigning activities. Failure to comply with the code’s stipulations may result in legal repercussions, including potential imprisonment for non-compliance during campaigning activities.