New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): In a move aimed at maintaining political neutrality during the upcoming Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has brought retired government officials working with state governments under the restrictions of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
The directive, issued on Tuesday, covers Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur. The Commission has formally communicated its decision to the chief secretaries and chief electoral officers of all five states, instructing them to ensure compliance.
Under the revised instructions, retired officers and former government employees who have been appointed, re-employed or engaged by state or Union Territory administrations will have to follow the same political conduct restrictions applicable to serving government employees throughout the MCC period.
The Election Commission observed that government personnel are expected to maintain complete political impartiality during elections. They must refrain from campaigning, canvassing or using their official standing and influence to support any political party, candidate or individual.
The Commission also made it clear that the Model Code of Conduct extends beyond regular government departments. Organisations, committees, corporations and commissions receiving full or partial government funding, along with their employees, are also covered by its provisions.
According to the EC, although existing service rules in the concerned states restrict serving government employees from participating in political activities, there was no specific framework clearly addressing the conduct of retired officials subsequently engaged by government administrations.
The latest order seeks to close this gap and prevent any possibility of political influence through former officials holding government assignments during the election period.
In another significant direction, the Commission has barred state governments from calling election-related officials posted in constituencies and districts where polling has been announced for official meetings or discussions. Such interactions through video conferences have also been prohibited.
Issuing a stern warning, the EC said violations of its instructions, whether through action or failure to act, would be treated seriously.
The five state administrations have been asked to circulate the directions among all concerned authorities and ensure their strict implementation.
The decision reinforces the Election Commission’s effort to maintain a level playing field for political parties and ensure that government machinery remains impartial throughout the electoral process.
