Imphal: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has extended Model Code of Conduct (MCC) restrictions to retired government officials and individuals re-employed or engaged by state governments, barring them from influencing election officials or participating in political campaigning.
The directions apply to poll-bound Manipur, Goa, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, according to a letter issued by the commission to the chief secretaries and chief electoral officers of the five states on November 9.
The move follows complaints that retired government employees subsequently engaged by state governments in various capacities had been calling meetings of officials involved in election-related duties during the MCC period.
Under the revised directions, such individuals must maintain political neutrality and refrain from campaigning or canvassing for any political party or candidate. They are also prohibited from using their names, official designations or positions of authority to influence the electoral process or extend favours to political parties or individuals.
The commission has barred them from summoning election-related officers in constituencies or districts where polls have been announced for official discussions. They are also prohibited from holding meetings or conducting video conferences with such officials.
The ECI warned that any violation of the directions, whether through an act or omission, would be viewed seriously. It asked the respective state administrations to ensure strict compliance.
The commission also reiterated that MCC provisions apply to organisations, committees, corporations and commissions receiving full or partial government funding, in addition to serving government employees.
The restrictions are intended to prevent individuals holding government-backed positions, including those re-employed after retirement, from influencing election officials or using their authority to affect the electoral process.