5.2. Evolution of Model Code of Conduct:

The uniqueness of the MCC is the fact that this was a document that originated and evolved with the consensus of the political parties. The origin of the MCC dates back to 1960 when the MCC started as a small set of Dos and Don’ts for the Assembly election in Kerala in 1960. It has evolved several times into its present form ever since:

♤ In 1968, the Election Commission held meetings with political parties at State level and circulated the Code of Conduct to observe minimum standard of behavior to ensure free and fair elections.

♤ In 1971-72, during General Election to the House of the People/State Legislative Assemblies the Commission circulated the Code again.

♤ At the time of general elections to some State Assemblies in 1974, the Commission issued the code of conduct to the political parties in those States.

♤ The Commission also suggested constituting committees at district level headed by the District Collector and comprising representatives of political parties as members for considering cases of violation of the code and ensuring its compliance by all parties and candidates.

♤ For the 1977 Lok Sabha general election, the Code was again circulated to the political parties.

♤ In 1979, Election Commission, in consultation with the political parties further amplified the code, adding a new Section placing restrictions on the “Party in power” so as to prevent cases of abuse of position of power to get undue advantage over other parties and candidates.

♤ In 1991, the code was consolidated and re-issued in its present form.