Is the Bihar Government Violating the Model Code of Conduct?
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Synopsis
RJD MP Manoj Jha raises serious concerns about the Bihar government's cash transfers during the election period. Allegations of violating the Model Code of Conduct could impact the credibility of the electoral process. Will the Election Commission take necessary actions to uphold democratic integrity?
Key Takeaways
- Manoj Jha has accused the Bihar government of violating the MCC.
- Cash transfers were made directly to beneficiaries during the election period.
- Jha urged the Election Commission to take swift action.
- The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana aims to empower women in Bihar.
- Integrity of the electoral process is vital for democracy.
Patna, Nov 1 (NationPress) Manoj Kumar Jha, the RJD Rajya Sabha MP and chief spokesperson, has addressed a letter to the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging significant breaches of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by the Bihar government.
Jha has claimed that the ruling NDA government has directly deposited Rs 10,000 into the accounts of beneficiaries during the election period to sway voters.
In his correspondence to the ECI on Saturday, Jha noted that these transfers occurred on 17 October, 24 October, and 31 October 2025, all while the MCC has been in effect since October 6.
He mentioned that yet another payment is scheduled for November 7—merely four days before the second phase of polling.
“This act signifies a blatant and intentional violation of the MCC. The purpose is to sway voter decisions through direct financial assistance,” Jha asserted.
He contended that this distribution contravenes MCC regulations, which prohibit the announcement or distribution of financial benefits during elections, as it disrupts the fairness of the electoral process and provides an unfair advantage to the ruling party.
“The timing of this cash transfer raises grave concerns. It compromises the impartiality of the electoral process and undermines the constitutional requirement for free and fair elections,” Jha expressed.
He called on the Election Commission to implement swift and stern actions, emphasizing that the integrity of the electoral process relies on a timely response from the Commission.
“Your decisive action will convey a strong message that constitutional principles will be upheld without exception,” his letter indicated.
The NDA government has yet to provide an official response.
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 26, distributing Rs 10,000 each to the bank accounts of 75 lakh women across Bihar in the scheme's initial phase.
To date, 1.41 crore Jeevika Didis from the state have benefited from these funds across various phases aimed at promoting self-employment.
Point of View
It's essential to uphold the integrity of elections. Allegations like those raised by Manoj Jha can undermine public trust in the electoral process. The Election Commission's response will be crucial in maintaining a fair and transparent democratic system.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Model Code of Conduct?
The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission to regulate the conduct of political parties and candidates during elections to ensure free and fair elections.
What allegations did Manoj Jha make?
Manoj Jha accused the Bihar government of violating the MCC by transferring Rs 10,000 to beneficiaries' accounts during the election period to influence voter behavior.
What is the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana?
It is a scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that aims to provide financial assistance to women for self-employment initiatives.
What actions can the Election Commission take?
The Election Commission can investigate the allegations and take necessary actions to enforce the MCC, including imposing penalties or halting any unlawful financial distributions.
How can this impact the election?
Such allegations can significantly affect the credibility of the electoral process, raising questions about the fairness and impartiality of the elections.
