Retired officials rehired also come under model code: EC

Why in News

The Election Commission of India (ECI) directed five poll-bound states to apply Model Code of Conduct (MCC) restrictions for serving officials to retired officials re-employed or engaged by state governments. The directions went to Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ahead of Assembly elections expected in early 2027.

Prelims Pointers

• The Model Code of Conduct sets rules for political parties and candidates during elections. 

• The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) ordinarily takes effect when the ECI announces the election schedule and runs until the election process is complete.

• The ECI enforces the code under Article 324, which gives it superintendence, direction and control over elections to Parliament and state legislatures.

• The party in power must avoid using public funds to advertise its achievements for electoral advantage. 

• During the MCC period, the re-employed officials(retired) will come under the same restrictions as serving officials.

1. They must refrain from campaigning or supporting a candidate or party.

2. They must refrain from summoning or holding official meetings or video conferences with election-related officers of constituencies or districts where elections have been announced.

Prelims Traps

• “The Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the schedule for general elections and bye-elections.” This is incorrect. The Election Commission of India decides the schedule. (UPSC Prelims 2017)

• “A visit by an Election Commission team to a poll-bound state activates the MCC.” This is incorrect. Preparatory visits can precede the announcement of the election schedule.