The Election Commission announced on Thursday that the model code of conduct, which came into effect on March 16 with the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections, has been lifted.
This decision follows the declaration of results for the Lok Sabha elections and assembly polls in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, along with several assembly bypolls.
In a communication addressed to the Union Cabinet Secretary and state chief secretaries, the Election Commission stated, "As the results of the Lok Sabha elections and assembly polls have been declared, the model code of conduct has ceased to be in operation with immediate effect."
The model code of conduct is a set of guidelines agreed upon by all stakeholders to ensure that the campaigning, polling, and counting processes remain orderly, clean, and peaceful. It aims to prevent the misuse of state machinery and finances by the ruling party.
Although the model code of conduct does not have statutory backing, its importance has been upheld by the Supreme Court on multiple occasions.
The Election Commission is fully authorised to investigate any violations of the code and impose penalties.
The origin of the model code of conduct dates back to the 1960 assembly elections in Kerala, when the administration sought to establish a code of conduct for political parties.
Over the past 60 years, the code has evolved to its current form.
According to the Election Commission of India, the model code of conduct mandates that parties in power at both the Centre and the states must not use their official position for campaign purposes.
Ministers and other government authorities are prohibited from announcing financial grants in any form.
No project or scheme that could influence voters in favor of the ruling party can be announced, and official machinery cannot be used for campaign purposes while the poll code is in effect.
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