ELECTION COMMISSION NOTICE TO KARNATAKA GOVERNMENT: MODEL CODE VIOLATION

Why in the News?

  • The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a notice to the Karnataka Government for allegedly violating the model code of conduct in Telangana.
  • The violation pertains to the publication of advertisements in Telangana newspapers showcasing Karnataka’s welfare schemes and achievements.

Notice and Directions

  • The ECI served the notice on Monday, directing the Karnataka Government to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken.
  • The Commission examined records and found no approval granted for the advertisements, considering it a gross violation of its directions.

MCC Overview

  • The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to regulate political parties and candidates before elections.
  • Its purpose is to ensure free and fair elections in line with Article 324 of the Constitution, empowering the ECI to supervise electoral processes.

Operational Period

  • The MCC is in effect from the announcement of the election schedule until the declaration of results.

ECI’s Response and Deadline

  • The Commission directed an immediate halt to the publication of such advertisements by Karnataka in Telangana.

This notice reflects the Election Commission’s commitment to upholding the model code of conduct and ensuring fair play in election-related activities, urging timely compliance from the concerned state government.