5.3. Implications of applying the model code of conduct

With the application of MCC in elections, there have been noticeable changes in the manner of conduct of political parties and candidates during elections:

♤ The present code contains guidelines for general conduct of political parties and candidates (no attack on private life, no appeal to communal feelings, discipline and decorum in meetings, processions, guidelines for party in power – official machinery and facilities not to be used for electioneering, prohibition against Ministers and other authorities in announcing grants, new schemes etc).

♤ Ministers and those holding public offices are not allowed to combine official visits with electioneering tours.

♤ Issue of advertisements at the cost of public exchequer is prohibited.

♤ Grants, new schemes / projects cannot be announced. Even the schemes that may have been announced before the MCC came into force, but that has not actually taken off in terms of implementation on field are also required to be put on hold.

♤ It is through such restrictions that the advantage of being in power is blunted and the contestants get the opportunity to fight on more or less equal terms.