Our Bureau
New Delhi
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the upcoming General Elections and also that of Assembly polls in four states, including some by-polls. Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases – Phase 1- April 19, Phase 2- 26 April, Phase 3-7 May, Phase 4 – 13 May, Phase 5 – 20 May, Phase 6 – 25 May, Phase 7 – 1 June, and counting on June 4. Assembly elections will be held in Andhra Pradesh on May 13, in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim on April 19. Odisha goes to the polls on May 13 and May 20. Bypolls on 26 Assembly seats will also be held along with the Lok Sabha polls.
According to CEC Rajiv Kumar, there are 96.8 crore people are eligible to cast a vote in the upcoming polls at over 12 lakh polling stations. With it, the Model Code of Conduct has come into force, which aims to ensure a level playing field for everyone during the key political exercise in the world’s largest democracy.
According to the model code of conduct, here are 5 guidelines to be followed.
Steer clear of places of worship for campaigning
Activities such as exploiting caste and communal sentiments to influence voters, spreading rumours, and attempting to bribe or intimidate voters are not allowed.
No launching of new projects
The government can’t launch new projects or lay the foundation stones for new projects. Authorities can’t make promises related to infrastructure development, like the construction of roads or provisions of drinking water facilities.
No Announcement of Financial grant
Candidates are prohibited from announcing financial grants once the elections are announced.
Burning of opponent’s effigy
The carrying and burning of effigies purporting to represent members of other political parties or their leaders is not allowed.
Prohibition of use of government resources
The use of government resources, including transport, machinery, and security personnel, for election campaigning is strictly prohibited.
