What is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?

Home / Legal Explainers / Government & Elections / Elections / Campaigning & Elections / What is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC)(( Manual for Model Code of Conduct, Election Commission, available at https://eci.gov.in/files/file/9375-manual-on-model-code-of-conduct.)) are rules and regulations which regulate the actions of the political parties, candidates, people supporting them, the civil servants during election time and anybody else who is associated with elections. It also regulates the actions of other individuals and organizations with the aim of making the elections as transparent as possible.

The MCC ensures that the elections are held on fair grounds and no action is taken by a party in power so as to derive any benefit during the elections. The MCC also levels the playing field for all the political parties involved in the electoral process.

In the case of the Lok Sabha election, the MCC applies to the whole of India.

Have a question you want to ask our legal experts?

Ask Nyaaya

Related Resources

Print Media and MCC

All print media including newspapers have to follow the rules under the MCC.

Unfair Election Practices by Candidates

There are many practices during an election campaign that candidates are not supposed to do, which count as unfair election practices by the candidates.

Use of Religion as a Basis for Campaigning

A party or candidate cannot campaign in any manner which would result in creating tension or hatred between different castes and religious communities.

Ban on Use of Official Vehicles during Campaigning

The use of any official vehicles for campaigning or election-related travel from the date of announcement of elections till the completion of elections is not allowed.

Use of Defence Forces for Campaigning

Political parties or candidates cannot use defence forces for campaigning purposes. They cannot use the photographs of any defence forces or army staff during their campaign.

When Does MCC Apply?

For the Lok Sabha elections, MCC is in force from when the election schedule is announced up to the announcement of the results.