The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday ordered the immediate enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) across Bihar, two days after announcing the schedule for the state assembly elections.
The Commission has emphasized strict compliance with regulations governing election conduct, including the removal of defacement from government, public, and private property, and prohibiting the misuse of official vehicles, government accommodation, or other facilities by political parties or candidates. Ministers and officials are directed not to combine official duties with electioneering or use government machinery, transport, or personnel for campaign purposes.
Respect for citizen privacy has been highlighted, with a ban on demonstrations or picketing outside private residences. The use of land, buildings, or walls for flags, banners, or posters without the owner’s consent is also prohibited.
To ensure effective monitoring, the ECI has set up a complaint system including a 24X7 Call Centre (number 1950) and the C-Vigil App on ECINET, where citizens and political parties can report violations. A total of 824 flying squads have been deployed across the state to respond to complaints within 100 minutes.
Political parties are required to inform police authorities in advance about meetings and processions to facilitate security and traffic arrangements. Permissions must be obtained for loudspeakers and other facilities, and parties must comply with any prohibitory orders.
The Commission has also issued directions to prevent transfers of officers or officials involved in the election process, ensuring impartial enforcement of the MCC. Officials at all levels are expected to maintain fairness in regulating meetings, processions, and polling arrangements while safeguarding law and order and preserving the credibility of the electoral process.
Public spaces such as maidans and helipads will be equally accessible to all parties. The SUVIDHA module on ECINET has been activated to allow parties to apply for usage of such venues on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring transparency and fairness.