Model Code of Conduct (MCC)

The Model Code of Conduct ensures free and fair elections by regulating political behaviour and preventing misuse of government power during polls.

Model Code of Conduct (MCC)

Syllabus: Polity (UPSC GS II)
Source: The Hindu

Context

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into focus after alleged violations during the Bihar elections. A welfare cash transfer scheme reportedly coincided with polling dates, raising concerns about fairness and electoral ethics.

What is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?

The MCC is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
It ensures free, fair, and ethical elections by regulating the conduct of political parties and candidates.
Objective: To maintain a level playing field and prevent misuse of government machinery for electoral advantage.

History of MCC

1960: First introduced during the Kerala Assembly elections as a voluntary code.
1962: Adopted nationally during the Lok Sabha elections with all-party consensus.
1979–1991: Gradually strengthened; strict enforcement began post-1991.
2013: Revised after Subramaniam Balaji vs. State of Tamil Nadu; new guidelines added on manifestos and freebies.

Key Features of MCC

1. General Conduct

No communal appeals or personal attacks.
Religious places cannot be used for political campaigning.

2. Restrictions on the Party in Power

No new schemes, financial grants, or ad-hoc appointments once elections are announced.

3. Campaign Discipline

No bribing of voters, intimidation, or liquor distribution within 48 hours of polling.

4. Use of Government Machinery

Government transport, media, and rest houses cannot be used for partisan purposes.

5. Election Manifestos

Parties must present financially feasible promises and avoid unsustainable freebies.

6. Meetings and Processions

Require prior police permission to avoid clashes and maintain law and order.

Need for a Strong MCC

Ensures electoral integrity by preventing misuse of state power, funds, and media influence.
Prevents ruling parties from using last-minute schemes to influence voters.
- Example: Bihar’s Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana (2025) raised concerns due to cash disbursals during poll dates.
Checks unsustainable freebie politics.
Promotes fair competition based on performance, not state-funded advantages.
Boosts voter confidence in democratic institutions and electoral outcomes.

Challenges Associated with MCC

Non-binding nature: MCC lacks legal enforceability, limiting the ECI’s powers.
Circumvention through ongoing schemes: Governments continue old schemes or rebrand them.
- Example: Telangana’s rebranded subsidy program (2023).
Slow judicial process: MCC complaints often outlast the election cycle.
Digital manipulation: Deepfakes and AI-generated propaganda bypass traditional monitoring.
Political resistance: Governments oppose stricter MCC rules citing governance needs.

Way Ahead

1. Give MCC statutory backing

Enact a Model Code of Conduct Act linked to the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Countries like the UK have similar legal frameworks.

2. Create fast-track MCC tribunals

Set up special benches to resolve complaints within the election period.

3. Leverage digital surveillance

Use AI tools and social media analytics to track hate speech, misinformation, and deepfakes.
Platforms like ECI’s “cVIGIL” and the proposed “AI-Monitor” can improve real-time detection.

4. Enhance transparency

Mandate disclosure of MCC violation reports and EC actions within 48 hours.

5. Institutionalise ethical leadership

Introduce ethics and electoral integrity training for political workers and candidates.

Conclusion

A strengthened Model Code of Conduct is essential for protecting the credibility of India’s elections. With legal backing, technological tools, and ethical political practices, the MCC can evolve from a moral guideline into a firm guarantee of electoral fairness and integrity.