MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT for General Elections - 2014

Consequent on the announcement of the Schedule for the General Elections through this Press Note, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the Guidance of Political Parties and Candidates comes into operation with immediate effect from today itself in the entire country. This will be applicable to all Political Parties and to the Union and State Governments and UT Administrations. In pursuance of the judgement of Supreme Court dated 5th July 2013, in SLP(C) no 21455 of 2008 (S.Subramaniam Balaji vs Govt of T.N. & others) the Election Commission has framed Guidelines on Election Manifesto in consultation with recognized Political Parties. These Guidelines have been incorporated as part VIII of “Model Code of Conduct for Guidance of Political Parties & Candidates” and shall be applicable & implemented in Lok Sabha Elections - 2014 as part of MCC and for all future elections. The Commission calls upon all the Political Parties, Candidates and the Union and State Governments and UT Administrations to strictly adhere to the MCC. The Commission has made elaborate arrangements for ensuring the effective implementation of the MCC Guidelines. Any violations of these Guidelines would be strictly dealt with and the Commission re-emphasises

that the instructions issued in this regard from time to time should be read and understood by all Political Parites, contesting candidates and their agents/ representatives, to avoid any misgivings or lack of information or understanding/ interpretation.