A Complete Guide to the Model Code of Conduct for Maharashtra Civic Elections
The Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) on Tuesday issued a detailed Code of Conduct for the upcoming local body elections across the state, bringing all municipal corporations, municipal councils, Nagar panchayats, zilla parishads and panchayat samitis under the purview of the model code. The order takes effect from Tuesday and will remain in force until the completion of the election process.
The directive, issued under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporations Act, 1965 and the Maharashtra Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis Act, 1961, aims to ensure peaceful, transparent and fair elections in all local self-government bodies, the State Election Commission (SEC) said.
Strict guidelines are outlined in the SEC’s order for maintaining discipline and order during the voting process. It forbids any attempt to instill fear in voters through violence, intimidation, or other means. Equal opportunities for campaigning have been required for all candidates and political parties.
- Loudspeaker use will not be allowed between 10 pm and 6 am during the Model Code of Conduct period.
- The order also bans the distribution of cash, liquor or gifts as inducements to voters.
- Use of government vehicles, buildings or staff for electioneering has been strictly prohibited.
- The poll body has directed that no new government schemes or projects be announced or inaugurated during the election period
- No political advertisements be issued using public funds
Spending limits and campaign regulations-The SEC order for the Maharashtra local body polls 2025 also sets clear expenditure limits for candidates. For municipal corporation elections, the cap has been fixed at Rs 10 lakh per candidate, for municipal councils and Nagar panchayats, between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 5 lakh depending on the category, and for zilla parishad and panchayat samiti polls, between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3 lakh.
Restrictions on campaign media and rallies- In order to hold public meetings, candidates must apply at least 48 hours in advance, and loudspeaker use has been banned. Posts on social media that contain misleading, provocative, or offensive content are absolutely forbidden.
Only with prior permission will vehicle rallies be permitted, and organisers must abide by all traffic laws.
Rules around polling stations and security- Campaigning or canvassing within 100 meters of polling stations will not be allowed. Carrying mobile phones or weapons inside polling premises has also been banned. All forms of campaigning must stop 48 hours before polling begins, marking the silence period, during which exit polls are also not permitted.
Guidelines for government officials- It has been requested that government employees on election duty remain completely impartial. They are not permitted to support or affiliate with any political party or individual. Additionally, the Commission will establish specialized audit teams to confirm the candidates’ reported expense accounts.
Penalties for violations- Code violations will result in severe consequences. Spreading misleading information or fake news could result in fines, censure, or disqualification; misusing government resources could end in suspension and criminal charges; and distributing money or alcohol could result in a formal complaint and the cancellation of a candidacy.
Voter helpline- Voters can visit SEC’s official website: sec.maharashtra.gov.in or call on the helpline 1800-22-1950 for more details
Written by Prachi Sawardekar
Samvad Setu Media
