Model Code of Conduct Enforced in Delhi: Know What’s Prohibited and Penalties for Violations

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): With the announcement of the Delhi Assembly election dates on Tuesday, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into effect. The purpose of enforcing the MCC is to ensure that the elections are held in a free and fair manner. If any political party violates the code, the Election Commission can take action against it.

The election dates for Delhi Assembly have been set – voting will take place on February 5, 2025 and results will be declared on February 8, 2025. A total of 1 crore 55 lakh 24 thousand 858 voters will cast their votes for the 70 Delhi Assembly seats. During this period, several restrictions will be in place as per the MCC, including the ban on government announcements or the launch of new schemes. These changes will continue until the formation of the new government.

What are the restrictions imposed when the Model Code of Conduct is applied?

According to the Election Commission, once the MCC is in place, the government is prohibited from making any new announcements, inaugurating projects or laying the foundation stones of schemes. Additionally, if a candidate or supporter wants to organize a rally or procession they must first obtain permission from the police. The MCC guidelines state that no leader can ask for votes on the basis of religion or caste and they are not allowed to engage in activities that create division between communities. Moreover, it is prohibited to put up flags or banners on anyone's house or walls without permission. On voting day, liquor shops will remain closed and there will be a strict ban on using alcohol to lure voters.

The Election Commission also ensures that political camps near polling booths do not create crowds and no campaign materials are displayed there. No food or drink can be served at these camps on election day. The Election Commission ensures that political parties, candidates or their supporters do not engage in voter bribing, intimidation or rigging of votes. Furthermore, they are not allowed to provide vehicles to transport voters to and from polling stations. To monitor political activities, the Election Commission appoints observers and during the MCC period, no government employee can be transferred.