Most Immediate OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER ANDHRA PRADESH Ground Floor, 5" Building, A.P. Secretariat, Velagapudi-522238 ‘Memo No. 2147/Flec.A2/A1/2024 Sub:- General Election to Lok Sabha 2024 and simultaneous elections to Legislative Assembly of AP - Enforcement of Model Code of Conduct after announcement of General Elections ~ Strict compliance Reg. ory It s to inform that the Election Commission of India is going to announce the Schedule for General Elections-2024 on 16.03.2024 at 3.00 PM. In this respect, as per the Election Commission of India guidelines with respect to enforcement of Model Code of Conduct after announcement of General Elections, the following activities need to be taken up immediately by all concerned departments: 1. All wall waitings, posters, papers, cut-outs, hoardings, banners, flags ete. ‘on Government property shall be removed within 24 hours after the announcement of Elections. 2. All unauthorised political advertisements including wall writings / posters / papers / cut-outs / hoardings / banners / flags ete. at public property and in public space like bus stand, railway station, railway bridges, roadways, Government buses, electric polls, municipal meetings and spaces etc. shall bbe removed within 48 hours from the announcement of elestions. 3. All advertisements in the Print and Electronic Media showing the achievements of the Government at the cost of public exchequer shall be stopped forthwith after the announcement of elections. 4. All references to Politicians, Ministers,” Political Parties available on State Government official website and photographs of political functionaries shall be removed immediately from official websites of all ‘State departments immediately on announcement of electicns. (Contd...2)5. All departments related to developmentconstruction within 72 hours of the announcement of elections shall provide a list of the following for references in case of validating any complaint on violation ef MCC to the CEO/DEO:- §) List of works which have already been started on ground. ii) List of fresh works which have not started on ground. 6. There shall be a total ban on use of official vehicles by any Minister for lectioneering. 7. There shall be a total ban on transfers of all officers, officals connected ‘with conduct of elections, 8, The photographs and images of political functionaries shall not be displayed on Government buildings including Prime Minister, Chief ‘Minister, Ministers and other political functionaries. 9. There shall be complete ban on video conferencing between the Ministers and other political functionaries and officials individually or collectively after the announcement of elections. 10. Beneficiary cards distributed to beneficiaries, constructions site plaques etc, erected during the enforcement of Model Code of Conduct shall not contain photographs, messages of Chief Ministers, Ministers and other political functionaries, However, no interference is called for in respect of photos of political functionaries on beneficiary cards, construction site plaques etc. that are distibuted/erected prior to the enforcement of model code of conduct. 11. The electricity bills, water bills, boarding passes, vaccina:ion certificates, tc. to be generated after the enforcement of Mode! Code of Conduct should not contain any photographs or messages/symtols of political functionaries/parties. (Contd...3)3 12, All hoardings, advertisements at the cost of public exchequer which seek to project the achievements of any living political functionary or party and which carry his name or photo or party symbol should be removed forthwith, 13. No Pilot cars with beacon lights of any colour or car affixed with siren of ‘any kind making his presence conspicuous shall be used by any Minister during his electioneering visits even if the State administration has granted him a security cover requiring presence of armed personnel 10 accompany him of such visit 14, The Ministers shall not be accommodated in Government guest houses while on election tours. 15. Photos of MPs and MLAs on mobile objects like water tanks, ‘ambulances etc. funded under MP LAD/MLA LAD or other Government schemes shall be covered 16. All officers whose spouse are active in politcal arena should not leave their headquarters cither on leave or on tour till the elections are completed except with the specific permission of the Chief Secretary. 17, The conduct of government servant should be impartial and they should avoid any scope for any suspicion that they are favouring any party or ‘candidate, They are not expected to take part in any election campaign and canvassing, Any such incident where they participate in any programme organised by political party, taking part in political movement, receive any benefit/gift from any political party or trying to ‘undue influence during the elections will be against the Conduct Rules for which disciplinary action can be initiated and in violation of Sections under IPC 171 and Sections 123, 129, 134 and 134A of RP. Act, 1951 for which legal action can be taken against such governmeat servant. (Contd...4)‘The related MCC guidelines of Commission is herewith attached for reference and necessary action. MUKESH KUMAR MEENA CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER & E, O, PRLSECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT To All the Secretariat Departments (v:6) All the Heads ofthe Departmen (v-e) ‘All the District CollectorsDistric Election officers inthe State (we) ‘The Director General of Police, A.P», Mangalagiri, Guntur Distict (We) Al the Commissioners of Police in the State (w 2) All the Superintendents of Police in the State (wc) Copy to ‘The Election Commission of India, New Delhi ‘The PS. to Chief Secretary, Andhra Pradesh (¥:6) The PS, to Chief Electoral Officer, AP. (w.c) ‘The P'S. to Additional Chief Electoral Officers, AP. (We) All he Sections in GA (Elections) Department (we) 1 FORWARDE! aa Si avofcm on,By Soeed Post/E- G7) SUCRETARIAT OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA ie aaa ea, sete ts, A$ fes-110001 Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Road, Now Debi 1401 "No. 487/6/INST/BCI/FUNCT/MCCy/2024{OICC ENFORCEMENT) Dated: 24 January, 2024 (0 Thechiet Secretaries of allstates and Union Terris (i) Te cher sectoral otters of allstates and Union Terres, Subject Enforcement ofthe Model Cod of Conduct~ Do's and Don'ts regarding Reference: Commision’ instructions: (Mo. 437/5/2008-ccase, dated 05.03 2009 (i) to. 437/5/16/2006, dated 09.03.2008 (i) No, asaqnst/2007-PuN4, dated 07.01.07 (i) No. a37/6nNst/2008-ccRBe, dated 19.03.2009 (6) No. 37/6nNst-2008/ccR8e, dated 02.04.2008 (ui) No. 497/67INST/2011-CCRBE, dated 05.042012 (i) No, 437/6/2001/CCAB, dated 11102012 (wi) No, 437/6/47NST/2013-CCRE dated 13.11.2013 (i) No, 437/6/NS1/2014/CCBRE, dated 18032018 (0) No, 437/6/INST/2024/CCARE, dated 20032018 (a) No. 437/6/85023/94 MCS, dated 04.10.1998 (as) No, 437/6/98 45. dated 31.12.2993 (au) No. 434/6/PUN, dated 22.03.1996 (as) No, 437/6/2002-4N, dated 25.01.2002 (av) No. 437/5/23/2008 PLN, eated 11.03.2008 (av) No. 437/6/INST/2008-Cck, dated 03.03.2008 (avi) No. 437/6/2009/CCR6e, sates 24.03.2009, (avi) No, 437/6/INST.2005/CCRBE, dated 6.042008 (aa) No. 437/6/IST-2012/CCRBE, dated 21.01.2012 (1x) No. 437/6/2/2034/CCRBE, dated 29.03 2018 (ax) No. 437/5/20070%S7)-PuN-, dated 211.2007 (si) No, 437/6/2008-P0 1, dated! 30.12.2008 (si) No. 437/6/INST/2014/CCABE, dated 18.02.2014 (sv) No. 437/6/36/2008-PLNs, dated 0608 2008 (ee) No, 437/6/2006 UN (Vo. dated: O108,2006, and (ew) No, 437/6/98-PUNl dated 08.01.1998Madam ines the Model Code of Conduct comes ito operation right from the me and doy, the ection Commision schedule of eetions. The Commision hat Kaued various instructions and clarifications on observance of cade of conduct from time to time vide letters sted above. Followingare the consolidated lnstuctons in supersesion of al the exing instructions in reference: 1. Applicability of Model Code of Conduct: A o w wy Duration of Appiation In the case of general elections to the Lok Sabha(StateLepilatve Asiembles, the Mode Code of Conduct which comes into force on the date of announcement of election schedule by the Election Commision, will cease to be in operation once the Ove Constitution Notification constituting the new Houses) concemed Is issued ty the Commision, respective of the datls before which the election sto be completedas mentioned inthe sloctionnotifestions Inthe case of bye-lections tothe Lok Sabha/State Lgiativ Assembles, the Model Cade of Conduct wil cease to be in operation immediately after the formal declaration ofthe result ofthe byelection by the Returning Ofer concerned. In the case ofall elections to the Leyslative Councils of Stats, where the Model Code of Conducts made appiabe, shall cease to be in operation on the declaration of result of lection by the Returning Office concerned 8. Extent of Appication ® At the time of 2 general election tothe House ofthe People orto a State Laglative Assembly, Model Code of Conduct applies throughout Inia or, the state concerned, 38 the case maybe ‘tthe time of byelection, MCC would be enforced in the entire stricta covering the Constituency going fr be-lectin|s. However, i constituency comprised in State Capital Metropolitan Cites/tunepa Corporations, then Mode! Cote af Conduct would be applicable i the area of concerned Constituency only and for any district in whch Corporation! Metropolitan Chy/Municipal Corporation iloeates, MOC would be enforced ln the particular Assembly Constituency Segment only ang notin thewhole of the de. For the distil) with number of poling stations lee than 10% of the total poling ions ofthe constituency concerned, the instructions would be saleable ony in theseo under jursacion of those poling stations. However, I must be ensured thatthe ‘other instructions regarding deployment of staf et, ae strictly observed in all districts respective of numberof poling stations stuated therein (Wha ae Covered under Model Code of Conduct (i) The provisions of Model Code of Conduct apply to all erganzatons/commtees, corporations/commissons ete, funded whol or partial by the Central Govt. or any State Gow. lke the Commonwealth Games Organising Commitee, ODA, Cletrity Regulatory Commissions, Jal Board, Tansport Corporations, any other development authority te (i) The genera provisions of Model Code of Conduct are applicable toall persons, ncuding those who intend tobe »candidte in an election, from the date of announcement of lectons by the Commision, Election expenditure by the candite shal be counted ‘rom the date he fles his nomination papers. However, ts cage that expenditre on ‘material whieh may have been produced before filing of nomination if used ater fling of ‘nomination by the candidate stall be included in the election expenditure of the candidate 1. Welfare schemes and governmental works 1. Announcement of new projects oF prorammes or concesslons or franca rants in any form or bromisesthersof or lying of foundation stones, etc, which have the effect of infencng the votersin favour of the partyin powers prohibited, 2 These rasretions apply equally 10 new schemes and also ongoing schemes. But it does not ‘mean that inthe case of national reglonal and State uty schemes, whieh have already been ‘brought upto the stage of completion, their ulation o uncioning in pullicinterest shoud be “topped or delayed. The cominginte force ofthe Model Code of Conduct cannat be piven as an cue for not commissoning such schemes o allowing them to remain ie, At the sme tin, it shoul be ensured thatthe commissoning of such schemes is done by ci authority and ‘thoutastocating politcal functionaries and without any fanfare or ceremonies whatever, so that no impression i given or created that such commissioning has been dane with & view to Influencing the electorate in favour ofthe ruling party. in doubt, a cifieation should be obtained fiom Che Electoral Offcer/Electon Commission of ndaa itis further cred that simply because a budget provision has been made for any particular scheme ofthe scheme hasbeen sanctioned esi or a reference to the cheme was made i the address of the Governor or the budget speech of the Master It dees aot automatialy ‘ean that such schemes can be announced or inaugurated or therwit taken up after the announcement of elections wile the Model Code of conduct is n opeiton, since they wl early be intended to Influence the voters. Such actions if undertaken wil be considered a oltion ofthe mode code of conduct Na fresh sanctions for govesnmental schemes should be made. Review by palteal executive [snisters ete) and processing of benefiiary-oranted schemes, even ll ongoing, should be stopped til completion of elections No fresh release of funds on walfare schemes and works should be made or contract for works awarded In any part of the state where election i in ogress without price permission ofthe Commission. This includes works under the Member of Parliament including Rajya Sabha members) Local Area Development fund MLAS / MLC Lol {rea Development Fun, if any such scheme isin operation inthe state. No work shal startin respect of which even if work orders have heen sted Before the model code came into ffect, ifthe work has atally not started in the Fl These works cn start, only after the completion of election process. However, a work has actualy state, that can ‘There shall be no bar to the release of payments for completed work subject to the full satsfation ofthe concerned afi Commission does not refuse approval for schemes undertaken for tacling emergencies or unforeseen calamities ke roving rei to people suffering from drought, floods, pestilence, other natural calamities or welfare measures fo the aged ine ete In these matters, however, Prior approval of the Commission should be taken and sll ostentatious functions should be ‘tly avoided and no impression shoul be given o allowed t be created that such welfare ‘measure or rele and rehabilitation works are beng undertaken by the Government in ofce so 210 inflence the electors in favour ofthe partyin ower which a the same time wil adversely affect the prospects ofthe other parties The names of MPs/MILAS etc, appearing on moving vehicles Uke water tnks, ambulances ee funded under MPLAD schemes shovld be covered suitably during the ection period as such vehicles moving from one place to another may be considered 2 2 form o elacton campaign in Favour ofthe MP/MUA ate. concerned,20. 2. 4 [MI Model Code of Conduct related directions shall be leved only by the Commission, The Cabinet Secretariat or any other government ageney should reiterate ard disseminate the rections ofthe Commision fr compliance {EI may continue to take decsons unhindered on monetary policy sues. ‘Aer the Model Code of Conduct comes into effec, the Ministry of Finance will eed to take prior approval of the Commission on any policy announcements, fiscal neasures, taxation ‘elated sues and such other nancial rele, Similar, other Minsrls/Dagartmens will ned totake prior approval ofthe Commision before announelng any relie/bene [A Government of naa references othe Election Commision of ina shall e made preferably though the Cabinet Seeretriat. nso fara references rom State Governments ace concerned ‘the same shall be made t the Election Commision of nda through the Chef Electoral officer {£0} ofthe state concemed ‘The folowing types of exiting works can he continued by the government agencies without selerence tothe Election Commision after the Model Code of Conduct comes int fore: 1 Work Projects that have actualy started on the ground after obtaining all necessary 5. Benefciar-projects where specie benefiaris by name have been Identified before coming ofthe Model Code of Conduct into force: ©. Registered beneficiaries of MGNREGA may be covered under existing projects. New projects under MGNREGA that may be mandated under the provisions ofthe Act may be taken up oaly if tis for the already registered beneficiaries andthe project i aoady sted in the approved and sanctioned shelf of projects for which funds are also already earmarked, There shall be no bar to release of funds forthe completed portion of any work subject to ‘observance af lad down procedures and concutrenceof france department ‘The fofowing type of new works (whether beneficiary oF work erientedl that ‘ul al the folowing conditions before Model Code of Conduct comes ito effect can be taken up under ikimation tothe Commision Ful unding hs been tied up, |b. Administvative, technical and faandal sanctions have been obtained16. v, 18 Tender hasbeen floated, evaluated and awarded and 44. There is contractual obligation to start and end the work within a ven timeframe and falng which theresa obligation to impose penalty onthe contrac. ©. Incase of any ofthe above contions not being met In sue cass prior approval of the Commission shale sought and obtained Global tenders already feted, can be evaluated and finalized where ay ine its ave specified for such purpose. ‘Tenders other than global tenders, that ate akeady oated may be evalusted but not finalized without prior approval ofthe Commision. If they are not already floated, they shall not be ‘ated without prior approval ofthe Commission. ‘Commission ivaroly takes 2 humanitarian view onthe work that are necessitated de to man: made or natural calamities 1. gratia payments and gratuitous rel in the aftermath of @ crater can be given irecty to the perions affected atthe curentrates/scals of assistance presently In force, under intimation to the Commission. No change in the extant and prescribed seals of payments, however, shall be made In the existing rtesscales without prior pexmision af the Commission b. Payment dectly to the hospals rom CM's Rell Fund, la eu of divect cash payment to individual patients (benfclaries wil be permissible without reference tothe Emergent rei works and measures that ae simed to mitigate the hardships, desty and solely, ofthe persons afected ina deaster may be taken up urder intimation tothe Commission 4. However, new works that maybe necessitated by way of preventive messues to mitigate ‘helihly affects of natural esaters tke rep f embankments, water channels et. can be taken up only with prior permision of the Commision 1 Alo, an area shall not be declared drough/fond affected or any sich calamity affected lithout gor approval ofthe Commision. The extent of area akesdy declared to be calamity affected cannot be expanded without pi approval ofthe Commission {. Siilnty any selective assistance toa group of person rom the PU’ or the CM's Rie Fund will require prior approval of the Commision,is. a 2. ‘The medial assistance under PAs/CM' Rel Fund fr various teatment/aperatin, like heat surgry, kidney transplantation, cancer treatment etc whch are time boune in nature and cant be postponed without endangering patient's health may be releasad, provided selection of beneficiaries patents ae done bythe concerned Government Offias/Hend ofthe concerned Private Hospitals ‘The process requlred for the decision on the power tariff may be continued by the State lectrty Regulatory Commision. However, tariff award shall be made onl onthe completion of palin the relevant tate, aftr the pl date/dates ia that Sate, Te following type of activities will quire pir sermision of he Commissicn: 2. New works and projct cannot be taken up from discretionary funds of whatever nature Discretionary fun, in this contest, nudes funds, which ae provided fer inthe bugs in tenerc manner and for which no identified and sanctioned project sits prior to Mode! (ode of Conduct coming ito effect. Proposals for revival of sick PSUs, governmental takeover of enterpises ee. or any goioy impartially to all partis/conesting candidates to ensure level lying Fld (5). Citi of other politi parties and candidates should elate to thee pois, programme, past ecard and work (6) Te ght of every individual for peaceful and undisturbed home fe should befuly safeguarded 10} The local police authorities should be fully informed of the venue and tine of the proposed nesting: wellin tne and all necessary permisins taken, (8) ttnere are any resticve or prhibitory orders in fore in the pace of the proposed mesting, ‘thoy shall be fly respected. Exemption if necessary, must be applied fr and obtained well a (91. Permission must be obtained for the use of loudspeakers or any other sich Facil for the proposed meetings (00) The assistance ofthe police should be obt 124 in dealing wth persons diturbing mectings or otherwise creating sorter. (12) The te and pace ofthe starting of any arocesson, the route tobe fllond and the time and place at which the procession wil terminate should be settled in advance and advance permisions obtained from the police authorities. (22) the existence of any restrictive orders in force the localities through which ihe procession has to ass should be ascertained and fully compl! with So als, all trafic regulations ang other (13) The passage of the procession must be without hindrance to traficin) cooperation should be extended to al election oils at al times to ensure peaceful and orderly pall (15) All Workers must display badges or identty cards (16) Unocal dent ss issued to voters shall be on plan (white) paper and ne: contain any symbol ‘name ofthe candidate or ame ofthe pany. (27) Restrictions on plying of vehicles during the carmpalgn period and on pol day halle fully obeyed. (18) (except voters, candidates and ther election/poling agents), only persons wth a specifi valid authority letter fom the Election Commission can enter any poling Beoth. No functonary however highly placed (eg. Chief Minster, Minster, MP or MLA etc) exempt fem this condition. (13) Any complait or problem regarding the conduct of elections shal be rouge tothe notice ofthe ‘obierer appointed by the Commission/Retuming Oficer/Zonal/Sactor Magstrate/lcton Commission of nda (20) ovrecsons/orders/instructons ofthe Election Commision, the Returning OFicer, and the Oistriet Election Ofer shal be obeyed inal matters elated to various aspects feetion. {21) Do eave the constituency aftr the campaign period is over if you are not awter ora candidate or canaidate’s election agent rom that constuency. (2) Any and all advertisements atthe cost ofthe public exchequer regarding achievements of the party/Sovernmentin power is prohibited. (2) No Minster shall entar any poling station o the place of counting unless heoe she is 9 candidate (35 avoter only for voting. (9), Offical work shoul not ata be mised with eimpsigning/lectioneering (4) Noinducement, nancial or oterwit, shal be offered to the voter (5). Caste/communalfeting ofthe electors shall not be appesie to. (5) No acti, which may aparavate exiting ilferences or crete mutual hated or cause tension between afferent eases, communities 0 reliios or ings roups shall be attempted No eet of he privat Me, nt connected withthe public activites, ofthe eaders or workers of ‘other prtos shall be permite tobe erties Fy{8} other gates or their worl dtotions. (9) Temples, Mosques, Churches, uredwaras or anyplace of worship shall not be used as places for election propaganda, including speeches, posters, musi etc. on electoneering (a0) Activities which are corupt practices or electoral offences such as bir, undue influence, of ble mestings during the period of 48 hours ending with the hour fied othe clove of the poll Intimidation of voters, personation, canvassing within 100 meters of a polling staton, hol and conveyance of voters to and fom poling stations are prohbite. (a1) Demonstrations or picketing before the houses of individuals by way of patesting apne thelr opinion or aces shall not be resorted to (22) subject to the loca laws, noone can make use of an indus land, buliing, compound wall, veides ete. for erecting fag stats, putting up banners, pasting notices 0° writing slogans etc without specie permission ofthe umes (tobe shown to and deposited wits the District Election offen (23) No disturbances shall be created in public meetings or processions orsa 1 by other poital parti or candidates (1) Procession along aces at which another partys holding meetings shall not be undertaken. (15) Procession shall not cary any articles, which are capable of being mused as missles or weapons (16) Posters ssued by other partes and candidates shall not be removed or dela (27) Posters, as, symbols or any other propaganda materia shal not be displayed inthe place being used on the day of pl for dstrbution of identity slips or near poling booths (18) Loudspeakers whether static or mouated on mouing vehicles shall not be used either before 6 {Amor after 10pm. an without the prior writen permision of the authori concerned, (19) Loudspeskers shall alo not be used at puble meeting and procesions without the prior writen permission ofthe authors concerned, Nocmally, such meetings/processon ill not be alowed to continue beyond 1000 pm. inthe night and willbe futher subject tothe local ls, loc! berceptions of the security arrangements of the area and other celevart considerations lke ‘weather condtions, etal season, examination pea, te (20) No iquor shouldbe dtibuted during elections.(21) 0 the day of the pol, no person who has been assessed to be having a security threat and therefore given ofc! securty shal enter the vet af a poling station premise (uithin 200 eters) wth his security personnel. Further, an the day ofthe poll ne such person shall move around in a constituency with his securty personnal. the person provided with ofa security happens to bea voter ao, then he or she shal reste his/her moverert- accompanied by security personnel to voting on (22) No person who has been assessed tobe having 2 security threat and therefore provided oil secuty or wh has privat securty guards fr himself, shallbe appointed asa election agent or poling agent or counting agent NOTE: The above It of Do's ond Dan's only itr se. nslintuctons onthe above subicts, which must be ety observed and followed ‘The caieation/approval of the Election Commission of indin/Chie Electoral Officer of your state shouldbe obtained incase of doubt. ‘The above instructions ofthe Commission sal be Brought notice of ll concerned for strit compliance, Please acknowledge the reclpt ofthis letter. Yours atu, (oXafuonarc aroun sta Sa : IBy Speed Post/E-Ma ZY ana fates sehr aftarsa °@P-— secuvraniat oF THE ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA * Fchaer wea, arabes as, ag tt-110001 Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Road, New Delhi-110001 "No. 437/6/IwsT/EC/FUNCT/MCC/2028{ADVERTISEMENTS) a 2 January, 2024 te, ()—Theciet secretaries of al tates and Unio Tenors. (i) The Chet letorl ofc ofl tates and Union Tentores Subject: Model Code of Conduct ~ Publication of Advertisements ~ Regarding. Aeferenee: Commission's instructions (Wo. 437/6(28/20040UN dates 29.09.2008 (W) No. 437/6/2004-PUN i, dated 24.12.2008 IM) No 3/9/2007/5:, date: 05.08.2007 |i) No. 437/6/INSt/2009-CCABE, dated 23.02.2009 IM) No. 437/6mst/2008-CCABE, dated 13.04 2009 IM) No. 437/6/co/2013/Ccaae, dated 08102013, Iv) No. ¢37/6/6G/2013/Ccaae, dated 17102013, Iwi) Wo. 437/6/C6/2013.CCARE, dated 30.10.2013 Ti) Wo. 437/6/1/2014/Ccase, dated 04 042018 i) Wo. 437/6/ EyNST/FUNCT/AACC-2017, dated 06.01.2017 Ia) Wo. 437/6/1/eC\/NST/FUNCT/Mcc/2021, dated 13.03.2021, lai) No. 437/6/NsT/2018/CCROE, dated 1.082014 and bei) No 437/6NS1/2015 cs dated 292.2015, Madam, The Commision has issued various instructions from time to tine on Publeation of Advertisements during the period of enforcement of Model Code of Conduct Following are the onsldatd instructions in supersesson of althe Instructions issued deletes listed above |LAdvortiemonts tthe cost of Public Exchequer (2) Sub-paa tv of paca vi Party in Power’ ofthe Mode Code of Cond: fr the Guidance of Pole Parties and Candidates provides that:"he partyin power whether a the Centre or in the States/UTS coacermed, shall ensue that no cause given for any complain that thas used is oficial position fr the purposes ofits ‘fection campaign and in particlr- (wu) tsue of advertisment atthe cst of publ exchequer in the newspapers and other ‘media and the misuse of official mass mesia during the election perio for partisan coverage of, political news and publety egadng achievements with a view to furthering the prospects ofthe partyin power shall be scrupulously avolded.” (b) Those hoarding, advertisements, etc, put up bythe Government which purport to give general Information or convey general messages tothe masses on family planning, socal welfare schemes etc, may be allowed to be deplyed. However, ll those hoardings, advertisement, ec which seek ‘or purport to projec the achievements of any ving politcal functionaries or polis party and which carry thir photos ar name or party symbol shouldbe remavedforthaith3¢ no pltclfunctionay poli! party can use public resources and incur or authorize expandture fram pubic exchequer to eulogae himself or itself or enhance hiss own or ay poli leader's personal rage. Such hoardings, te. undoubtedly amount to thelr indvdualparty election campaign at public cost. Accordingly, the photos of potial leaders in such avertiament shouldbe removed/covered sutbly, The continuing ) Verfeation of ldges and guesthouses to keep a track ofthe st of occupants ©} Set up check-pots in the constituency borders and track the vehislar movement from outside te constituency 48) Varify the identity ofthe people/aroup of peoplein or to find out whathe thoy ate voters ‘oc not and establish thelr identity. ) This may be brought to the notice ofall concerned and ensure strc: compllance. Action taken inthe matt may be informed tthe Commision (tn case some pots functionay seeks exemption on mesial grounds 28) The DEO concemed, In consultation with CEO, would constitute @ Medial Board fr hea theckup of the political functonary seeking exemption. The Medial Board shal, afer‘medical examination ofthe patient and hisyher medical history, wil ge repert whether the condition ofthe patent (pltcal leader) is such that he cant move or be shifted under ‘medical attendance out ofthe constituency in an ambulance or vehicle 1b] The exemption would ony be considered by the EC ater consideration of report ofthe Medic! Board received through CEO concerned. Such pot functionary to whom exemption has been granted may be alowed to stayin the constueney subject to the condition that this is in no manner be used for any political/election related atts a any way. To ensure this, video survelance team shall be ployed at al the entrances of place of stay headed by 3 magistrate wth suitable police personne tobe deployed, til completion of poll. Expenditure incurred for such stay should be duly accounted for in lection Expenditure acounts ofthe contesting candidates for that 1. Use of School Grounds for campaln purpose during election Process ‘The school and college grounds may be used for political meetings provided - 1 schools and colleges academic calender are not disturbed under any circumstances. 1) the Schoo\/College Management has no objection fo this purpose and prior permisian for such campaigning is obtained fom the school/llege Management ab well as Sub Disonal offices. i such permission i granted on first-come fist served basis nd no pall party is allowed to monopole the ute of thove grounds, iv any violation inthe allotment of school/college grounds fr political meetings wil be viewed seriously by the Commission. The accountabiity in this regard les wih the Sub Divisional officer, ana the Poltzal Parties and canadates and campaigners shall ake care to ansuce that the above norms ae not oated the ground should be returned to the authority concerned without ay damage or withthe requiste compensation for the damage caused, if any. The pola pry/padies vestoreg back the campaign ground tothe concerned schoo/cliege author sould be response forthe payment of such compensation, If any. The above instructions would spply to al States/UTs except Punjab and Haryana where theres ‘expres prohibition ofthe Punjab & Haryae high Coutin the matter.12, Maintenance o igh Standard during Election Campaign (0) The Commission duly recognizes the fundamental right of freedom of spzech and expeesion under Artie 212) ofthe Constitution guaranteed to eins of nda, bu it also needs to be pointed ‘ut that such ight to feed of speech and expression isnot absolute andi tobe exercised in such 3 ‘manner that t doesnot transcend, inter al, the boundaries of daceney and moray ar dturb public ‘order or amount ta defamation or give inctement to an offence a ordained in cause 2) of that Article 139. The Model Code of Conduct sims and seeks to achieve that very objective by ts various provisions. (i) Hon'ble Supceme Cour, inthe matter of Gadabh YashwantraoKankarrao Ws ES BalasahebVikhe Pati (A 1998 $C 678) observed that "the duty ofthe top echelons of leadership 2 the state and national loves fal poltical partis le to set the trend for gvng the nesded information to the electorate by adopting desirable standards so that tpercolates to the lower levels and provides 9 congenial stmosphere fr fee and far poll. A contary tend of speeches by the top leaders tends to desenerate the election campaign a6 & descends to the lower loves and at time promotes even violence leasing to crimination of polities. The growth of thi unhelthy trend fe» cause fr serious concen for the proper functioning ofthe democracy and it the duty ofthe top leaders ofall politcal, artis to reverse this trend to enable mavement ofthe functioning of detocracy nthe prop ddeecson” (i) Thetlenble Apex Court has ako expressed its deep concern in the matter ef xing religion and caste with election campsign, vide ts Order ded 07.01.2017 in Gil Appeal No. 37 of 1982 (Abhicarn Singhvs C0. Commachen) and with civil appeal no, £339 of 1995, In si of above, the Commbsion’s has rected tha: 2 No appeal shall be made on bass of casta/communal feelings of the electors. Mo acthty, which may aggravate exsting ferences or create mutual hatred or couse tenson between different castes/communitis/eigiouingustic groups, shall be atompte. {Mo aspect ofthe private Ife, not connected withthe public acts, ofthe leaders or workers of ther partiesis tobe ered 4. Citcsm of ether partis or thelr workers on bass of unverified alegatonsoron distortions sullbe avoided2. No temples/mosqueschurches/gruivaras oF any place of worship & to be used for lection propaganda including speeches, poster, musi et, o elector eerng {The candidates/campaigners/polticalleaers are to desist rom aspaing photograph of defence personnel or photograph of functions involving defence personel in advertisement, ‘oF otherwise as par of thelr election propaganda/campalgning. They ae abo adised to desist fominulgingn any poll propaganda involving activities of defence forces, 1. The political leaders need to ensure that nothing in thei statements may be construed at rising of religion and caste et, wth their election campaigns. h. The —polteal pares and candidates should refain. from — any doeds/action/utterances/otherwise that may be construed 2s being epugnant to honour and dgity of women. (x) Sometimes, such statements are Being made fom a place which satin the sate where MCCis In force due to elections. In this electronic age, when a statements made by » plc functionry, it doesn’t remain confined tothe audience or place where it is made but instant travels throvgh TV, ‘soca media or print media even to those placey/states where election is gong on. undoubtedly has ‘the pernicious effect of influencing the mings of voters of the poll bound site The farceacing Implications ofthe statements made thus, stub the level paying Fld and often adversaly affect the peace, tranaulty and harmony ofthe poll bound areas. The leaders should des from making such statements which are against nt only the word but also the spirtof aw and the MCC, even at places winere elections ate not being held since it wil have an undesia impact on the mind of electors of ‘the poll bound states/areas. The spit of the Model Code of Conduct isnot just awoidance of direct, lation defintely also prohibits attempts to wtate the electoral space through uggestve or indirect, statements or nvendoes 13. Campaign by Star Campalgners In context of viltion of Model Code of Conduct by star campaigners the following actions ‘are required tobe taken on the pat ofthe Chi Electoral Ofces/Dstit Election Officers/Returing officers/Observers: (i For carty and uniformity, the Commission has decided that in future, in eases involving \ioation of Model Code of Conduct o any provision of ow by any candidate dul setup by ‘the party, or by the leaders of politica parties whose names have bean communicated by the party to the Elation Commisson/Chit Electoral Offer in terms af Explanations 1 & 2 Under sub-section {1} of Section 77 of Representation of the People At 1951, noice is‘saved to any such leader, o any candidate ofthe pall party, 2note wil ato be issued to the poltcal party concerned. It may be noted that leaders ae nominated by the poll parties under the aforesid Explanation Clauss for propaating programme of ‘the polticl party’. Therefore it woul only be reasonable and lg! to hold the political party concerned responsible for any act of omision or commision by such leader. inthis conte, attention of polit parts is ao invited tothe provisions of paragraph 168 of ‘the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968. (i) The campaign by the leaders specified under Section 773 [str eampsigners) should be ‘meticulously tracked. Any volatlon by Star Campaigner observed by the istrict Election Officers and Returning Officers in thelr respective dsit/eonsttuenc, shall immediately be brovpht to the notie of the Chief Electoral Officer for taking appropriate uldance/approval. The Chit electoral Offer shall report the acon taken to the Commision fr immediate followup action so thatthe ation recive required visibility, (i) The Chet electoral Offers and District Election OFfcers shall maintain & pary-wise register to track the instances of violations being committed by various candidates and campaigners of various political partis. Tis shouldbe a Sort of daly register indisting names ofthe candidate, campaigner and poltical pany. Brief description of vation, date of vilton follow up action taken and the ordar pasted by any election ofc the Commision, ny () The above document (vl index) Should alo to be putin pubic domain 0 that Interested parties incising the media can pick up the input anc the may work as 8 deterrence forthe candidates and political paris aganst indulgogiaay violation, The above Instructions of the Commision shal be brought to notice of af concerned for strict comlanee. Youre fat, mort ‘SR. PRINCIPAL SECRETARY i i 3By Speed Post/E-M sine fetataer srater aftarert SECRETARIAT OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA faafuer wee, are ts, a§ PReet-t1¢001 Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Road, New Dethi-110001 No, 437/6/INST/ECFUNCT/MCC/2024 (IMPORTANT DAYS) Dated: 2anuary, 2028 To, (The het Secretaries of alstates and Union Teitres (H)The chief electoral oftcors fal tates and Union Tetris “Subject: -Model Cade of Conduct ~ Instruction Celebration of Important Days ~ Regarding. Reference: Commissions instructions: (i) No.437/6/98-7UN, dated 10.01.1998 (i) Wo £cy6e98-437/6/8/98-PUN dated 27.01.1908 (i) to. 37/6/99-Pa, ted 28.07 1988 fs) to. a37/5/09-PUN, dted 16.08.1999 (6) to. 437/6/2008/PiNA, aated 28.09 2004, and (6) Mo. 437/6nwst/2012-CcRB, dated 24” Senusry 2012 Madame, The Commission has issue, inthe past a number of instructions in regard to celebration of Important days during the perad of enforcement of Mode! Code of Conduct. Following ae the consolidated instructions in supersession ofall the lnstruction sued vie letters listed above: | celebration of independence Oay/Republc Day attendance of poll functionaries (There sno objection to Central Ministers/Chief Minsters/Ministrs in the States to do the honours Inthe main Republic Da/independence Day functions at various locatlons subject tothe ‘onion that in ther speeches they should confine themselves to extaling the achievements ofthe Marys ia securing teedom of the county, glory of the Indlan State and so on. Under no ‘ereumstances, they should become a platform or politcal campaign. (itm vow ofthe fact hat Republic Day celebration wl come during the election process and thatthe Central Ministers, Chief Ministers and Ministers in the States belong to political partes andstances and may even be the candiates, the Commision, purely nthe interest of ensuring alael playing fel, directs that no Central Minster/Chiof Minster/Minister or any other polticl functions nthe States/ExPs shall do the honours at any such function at any location of within ‘tht home district o constituency or rom where he or she i contesting candidate a intends to contest. The Prime Minister and Chief Minister may however do so frm the National Capital and ‘State headquarters during Independence Day 25 per long standing convestons. Further, the Agptaris who wil hist the atonal Hag atthe functions may tavel drat to that place fom the place of election campalgr, Hany. The travel expenlture for hs purpose may be borne by the State Government concerned. They do not need to travel between these places vis headquarter (W)_ The Commision has no objection to organisation of Kav! Sammelan, Mushalas or ather cultura functions organised in connection withthe celebrations and belng attended bythe Central Ministers, Chief Ministers, Ministers athe States and other pltcalfunctonaris However, utmost ‘are should be taken to ensure that no political speeches are made onthe ocasion (i) Theinvestture ceremonies at the National and State level and dtrbutn of Tamra Patras to freedom fighters, et should be done according tothe exsing conventions. Celebration of Sadbhavane Diwas/Gandhi foyan - iipation of politica! (i) Central Micistrs/Chief Ministery Ministers inthe States can artist nthe Celebration of Sadbhavona Dwas/Sondh oyont subject to the condtion thatthe theme of tek speeches should be confined only to the Promotion of harmony among the people and eling deeds and schievement of Mahatme Gandhi and utmest cae should be taken to ensare that no polis! speeches highlighting the achievements of party in power are made on the ocasion. Under no circumstances, should become a platform for political campaign, (i Messages, if any, isued inthe name of Ministers, shouldbe confined to the theme of National Integration and Mahatma Gandhi only and should carry no photograph of the concerned Minster I. Hosting of tar Party ‘The Commision ofthe view that any entertainment at State cost ona religious occasion ‘would not be correct and specily during the continuance ofthe election process, However, ayIndvualefree by all means Yo host any such partyin his personal capacity and meeting the expense with his or her personal account on their own, ‘The above instructions ofthe Commission shall be brought to notice ofall concerned for Yours fk,@ ee ~ SECRETARIAT OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA. 2G cheer wea, arehes ds, af fErt-110001 Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Read, New Delhi-110001 No, 437/6/INST/ECY/FUNCT/MCC/2024 (Vehicles) Dated: 2 sanvary, 2028 To, (The chi Secretarin ofall Stats nd Union Tetris (8) The Chief lectoral ofers of allstates and Union Terovis ‘Subject: Mode! Code of Conduct~Instrction- Use of vehicles during elections Regarding. Reference: Commisons instructions (i) No.437/5/94/6CS-VoLy, dated 20.10.1994 (8) No.437/6/96-Pu4, dated 18.06.1998 (ii) No. 4/2001/15 dated 30.03.2002 () No. 4/2000/-, dated 08.05.2001 (o) No. 437/6/2006-PUsN, dated 23.13.2007 (wi) No. 437/6/2008/ccAe, dated 18102008 (si) No. 437/6/1/2008-ccABe, dated 24.10 2008 (si) No. 437/67msT/2008-ccae, dated 31.10.2008 () No. 37/efmst/2008-ccae,datedz8.03 2000 {8} Wo. 437/tst/2008-Cc&E,datedoo.04 2000 (3) No. 437/6fST/2010-CcABE, dated 5.102010 (si) No, 464ust/2011-€F, dated 23.03.2011, (ai) No, 454fsT/2011-€F5, dated 23.032011 (av) No. 464/NST/2011-EFS, dated 23.03 2011, nd (ov) No. a54sT/2011-EFS dated 23.03.2011 Madam, The Commission has, in the past, sued various instructions from time to time regarding applicabity of Model Code of Conduct on prevention of misuse of vehicles during elections. For convenience ofall concern, these Instructions have now been consolidated in sspersesion of al the Instructions listed above, for observance dung the peti when the Model Codec Conduct i i oee. ‘These instructions regarding restrictions misuse of vehicles during elections have been issued under ‘rile 324 of the Constitution anda other powers enabling the Commision nth behalf.Ban onuse of ffi vehicles (1) Subject to exceptions mentioned herein, there shallbe 2 total and absolste ban on the use of official voices for campagning,electoneering or election related travel duting elections. Such vehicles include helicopters, scrafs, crs, jeeps, automobiles, goots carriers, e-ehicles for evickshaws, two wheelers, boats, hoverrats, etc, except as regulated by the Commisio’s order on the subject, owned or hed or controled by the Cent ‘and state ‘Governments, Central Puble Sector Oxganzation, Public Sector Undertakings and Joint Sector Undertakings of the Central and State Governments, Local Authorities and Local Bodies, Mareting Boards (by whatever name known), Cooperative Seles, Autonomous District Councils or any other body in which public funds, howsoever small a portion of the total, ave invested The futonares of all the autenomous organization vi. Charman, Dy. Caiman, President, Vice President, Commissioners ee. may be instructed to use the ofa ‘yehile provided to them by the State Government only for commuting between office and residence and to attend any ofl mestng within the Head Quarters ite (2) The restrictions on the use of oil vehicles for campaigning, eectioneering oF election related travel are applicable inthe case of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha and ‘the Deputy Chaitman of Raa Sabha atthe time of Ganera Elections tp the Lok Sabha and alsin the case of Speaker and Deputy Speaker ofthe tate Legislative Assembly atthe time ‘of General Election to any State Assembly lirspecive of whether the Speaker and/or the Deputy Seeaker ofthe Legislative Assembly i 8 contesting candidate ce not atthe General lection to the tate Assembly {31 The District Administration shall keep a ose watch to find out any sch ofl vehicle fs being use for campaigning electionearing or election elated travel purpose. n such cases, ‘the Disvict Magistrate shall forthwith, requlstion or cause tobe requlstioned such veils, after following due procedure, for elation work, under Seton 160 ofthe Representation of the People Act, 1951 and such requistioned vehicles shall not be released until the completion ofthe process of elections (4) The ban onthe use of oficial veces wil equal apply to vehicles ino from any States not ing to the polls but whose oficial vehicles are attempted to be used for campaign, ether openly or dandesinaly, in any ather state gong to poll The Chif Secretary of each State/Union Teertory oF the Secretary to the Government of tnd in the concerned