EC's big decision: Retired officers on re-employment also bound by Model Code of Conduct, cannot campaign

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Election Commission has issued a major directive regarding political neutrality during the Model Code of Conduct. The Commission stated that the restrictions and prohibitions currently applicable to government employees will now also apply to individuals, including retired government officials and employees, who have been appointed, reappointed, or reappointed to various positions by state governments.

The directive was sent to the chief secretaries and chief electoral officers of Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. In the letter, the commission cited its previous directives of November 6, 1984, and April 6, 1991.

The Commission has previously issued guidelines regarding the conduct of government employees, stating that they are not expected to participate in any election campaign or propaganda. They should take utmost care not to use their name, official position, or authority to advance the interests of any individual, political party, or group. The provisions of the Model Code of Conduct apply to all organizations, committees, corporations, and commissions, etc., that are wholly or partially funded by the government, and to their employees. Furthermore, relevant conduct rules in states prohibit government servants from participating in political activities and elections.

The Commission noted that persons, including retired government officials, officers and employees, engaged or appointed or re-employed in various capacities by the State/Union Territory Governments, do not have any specific guidelines or rules regarding their political neutrality and conduct during the Model Code of Conduct period. To address this lacuna, the Commission has directed that the restrictions and prohibitions applicable to government servants shall also apply equally to the above category of persons during the Model Code of Conduct period.

The Commission stated that it will not summon any election-related official of the constituencies or districts where elections have been declared for any official discussion or meeting, or hold video conferences or meetings with any such official. Any act of omission or omission in violation of the Commission's instructions will be viewed seriously. The Commission stated that the above instructions should be brought to the notice of all concerned for strict compliance. It also asked them to confirm receipt of the letter.