The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday directed the immediate and strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) across Bihar, just two days after announcing the schedule for the upcoming state assembly elections.
The Commission has ordered full compliance with election regulations, including the removal of defacement from government, public, and private property, and the prohibition of misuse of official vehicles, accommodation, or other government facilities by political leaders or candidates. Ministers and officials have been instructed not to mix official duties with political campaigning or use government resources for electioneering.
Emphasizing citizen privacy, the ECI has banned demonstrations or picketing outside private residences and prohibited the use of any private land, building, or wall for flags, posters, or banners without the owner’s consent.
To ensure real-time monitoring and transparency, the Commission has activated a 24×7 Call Centre (number 1950) and the C-Vigil App on ECINET, enabling citizens to report MCC violations directly. A total of 824 flying squads have been deployed across Bihar, with a mandate to act on complaints within 100 minutes.
Political parties must now inform local police authorities in advance about meetings, rallies, or processions to facilitate security and traffic management. They are also required to seek prior permission for loudspeaker use and comply with local prohibitory orders.
The Commission has further instructed that no officer involved in the electoral process be transferred during this period to maintain neutrality. Officials have been reminded to ensure fairness in handling meetings, rallies, and polling arrangements, while upholding law and order and maintaining the credibility of the electoral process.
To ensure equal opportunity for all parties, the ECI has made public spaces such as maidans and helipads available on a first-come, first-served basis through the SUVIDHA module on ECINET, ensuring transparency and impartial access to venues during the election period.
