Hindu Editorial Analysis : 2-May-2024

The Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a crucial role in ensuring fair elections in the country. Recently, the ECI issued notices concerning violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by prominent political leaders. Understanding the MCC is essential for grasping its importance in the electoral process.

What is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?

The MCC is a set of guidelines created by the Election Commission to regulate the behavior of political parties and candidates during election campaigns. Key features of the MCC include:

  • Standards of Conduct: It sets standards that political leaders must follow.
  • Complaint Mechanism: It explains how parties can lodge complaints to ECI observers in case of disputes.
  • Guidelines for Ministers: It instructs how current ministers should behave while the MCC is in effect.
  • Constitutional Integrity: A 2019 addition prevents parties from making promises that go against the Constitution.

It’s important to note that the MCC is not a legal document and does not have enforceable laws. While violations may not always attract punishment, some actions are classified as electoral offenses under the Indian Penal Code and the Representation of the People Act of 1951.

When is the MCC Enforced?

The MCC comes into effect immediately after the ECI announces the election schedule and remains until the election results are declared. It applies to:

  • All elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
  • State Legislative Council elections from Local Bodies.
  • Graduates’ and Teachers’ Constituencies.

Moreover, all organizations funded by the government are required to comply with the MCC.

Rising Concerns

In recent times, the political landscape in India has changed dramatically. The following concerns have emerged:

  • Increase in Violations: Instances of MCC violations are becoming more frequent and severe.
  • Political Tactics: Leaders are using their influence and advanced technology to bypass MCC guidelines.
  • Weak Deterrence: The MCC does not clearly outline penalties for violations, which reduces its effectiveness.
  • Delayed Responses: Slow action from the ECI undermines public trust in its credibility.

Why In News

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued notices regarding complaints of violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) against several prominent leaders in the country, highlighting the growing concern over electoral integrity.

MCQs about Understanding the Model Code of Conduct in Indian Elections

  1. What is the primary purpose of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?
    A. To enforce strict penalties for all political parties
    B. To regulate the behavior of political parties and candidates during elections
    C. To eliminate political campaigns
    D. To provide financial support to political parties
    Correct Answer: B. To regulate the behavior of political parties and candidates during elections
    Explanation: The MCC is designed to set standards of conduct for political parties and candidates during election campaigns, ensuring fair practices.
  2. When does the Model Code of Conduct come into effect?
    A. After the election results are declared
    B. When the election schedule is announced by the ECI
    C. Only during Lok Sabha elections
    D. Six months before the elections
    Correct Answer: B. When the election schedule is announced by the ECI
    Explanation: The MCC is enforced immediately after the ECI announces the election schedule and remains in effect until the results are announced.
  3. Which of the following statements about the MCC is true?
    A. It is a legally enforceable document.
    B. Violations always attract severe penalties.
    C. It applies to all political parties, regardless of their funding.
    D. It is optional for state-funded organizations to follow it.
    Correct Answer: C. It applies to all political parties, regardless of their funding.
    Explanation: The MCC applies to all political parties and candidates, as well as organizations funded by the government, ensuring that everyone follows the guidelines during elections.
  4. What major issue has been observed regarding the enforcement of the MCC?
    A. Decrease in electoral participation
    B. Increase in violations and lack of clear penalties
    C. Complete adherence by all political leaders
    D. Abolishment of the MCC
    Correct Answer: B. Increase in violations and lack of clear penalties.
    Explanation: There has been a rise in MCC violations, and the lack of clearly defined penalties dilutes the effectiveness of the MCC in maintaining electoral integrity.

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