155-cases-filed-6-371-arrested-for-mcc-violations-in-delhi

Ahead of the Delhi assembly elections on February 5, 2025, authorities have made significant efforts to enforce the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) to ensure a free and fair election process.

 

As of January 13, 2025, Delhi Police have arrested 6,371 individuals for violating various provisions, including preventive action and the Excise Act.

 

In a series of measures aimed at maintaining law and order, the police have also seized unlicensed weapons, drugs, and large quantities of liquor.

 

Specifically, they have confiscated 105 unlicensed firearms, 78 cartridges, and 16,315.82 litres of alcohol. Additionally, authorities seized 57.55 kg of drugs, valued at approximately ₹12 crore, and ₹1,02,69,200 in cash.

 

The police's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the election process is underscored by their zero-tolerance approach to any breaches of the MCC. An official statement from the police indicated that they are ensuring strict compliance with guidelines laid down by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

 

The department has ramped up surveillance at interstate borders and is conducting a crackdown on illegal activities, with particular focus on curbing the illegal smuggling of arms and liquor.

 

The Model Code of Conduct came into effect on January 7, 2025, following the ECI's announcement of the election dates. It will remain in force until the completion of the election process.

 

This framework serves to regulate campaigning and prevent any unethical activities that could influence voters.

 

The upcoming elections will be held in a single phase on February 5, with the counting of votes scheduled for February 8. Nomination filings will close on January 17, with scrutiny of nominations taking place on January 18. The last date for candidates to withdraw their nominations is January 20.

 

A three-way contest is expected between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress party. Congress, which ruled Delhi for 15 years, has faced significant challenges in recent elections, failing to win a seat in the 2020 assembly elections.

 

Meanwhile, AAP has dominated Delhi's political landscape, securing 62 out of 70 seats in the 2020 elections, while the BJP managed to win only eight seats.