Election Model Code of Conduct relaxed The Model Code of Conduct which was imposed on the state prior to the conduct of Manipur Parliamentary polls has been relaxed to some extent. According to available sources, the earlier restrictions imposed on ministers going on official tours, pronouncements on development programes, schemes have been relaxed. Further, ministers are also allowed to go on tours outside the state as well as to summon department officials and call meetings. Defining the importance of Model Code of Conduct to ensure a free and fair election, the source also informed that it was the responsibility of the ruling party to guarantee that the Conduct is pursued in letter and spirit. The government too considers the implementation of the Conduct above all at both the Centre and the state level as any allegation of violating it can affect widespread protests. According to the Code, the ruling party cannot employ official machinery and vehicles as part of any campaign at the time of its implementation during election period. In addition, minister and authority cannot sanction any grants or funds from their Discretionary Funds as well. Development works related with construction of roads, declaration of any development works, laying foundation stones of projects are also restricted under the Conduct. On the other hand, transfer and posting of officers other than those ordered by the ECI could be executed, added the source. Manipur despite instances of re-polling at several polling stations has concluded its share of the 16th Indian Parliamentary polls and will declare the results following the official counting of votes scheduled on May 16.
Posted on: Fri, 25 Apr 2014 05:17:35 +0000
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