New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Monday that it will enforce the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) rigorously, following the declaration of Assembly elections in four states and one Union Territory.

Just a day prior, the electoral body revealed the timeline for the elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

In line with the announced schedule, notifications were issued today by the Election Commission and published in the official gazettes of Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry.

After the poll schedule was made public, the ECI instructed the Chief Secretaries and Chief Electoral Officers of the relevant states and Union Territories to ensure the swift implementation of the MCC.

The MCC will also pertain to the Central government concerning any announcements or policy changes impacting these states and the Union Territory.

"The Commission has mandated strict adherence to guidelines regarding the removal of defacement from government, public, and private properties; the prohibition of using official vehicles or government accommodations by any political party, candidate, or associated individual; and the ban on advertisements funded by public money," ECI stated in a release.

"Respect for citizens' privacy is paramount, meaning no demonstrations or picketing should occur outside private residences. Additionally, land, buildings, or walls should not be utilized for flags, banners, or posters without the consent of the owner," the statement added.

The Election Commission has also set up a complaint monitoring system to allow citizens and political entities to report breaches of the MCC.

A dedicated Call Centre, reachable at 1950, has been established for the public and political parties to file complaints with the relevant District Election Officer or Returning Officer.

Moreover, citizens and political parties can report violations via the C-Vigil app, accessible through the ECINET platform.

To facilitate prompt action, over 5,173 flying squads have been deployed across the states and the Union Territory, ensuring that complaints are addressed within 100 minutes.

Additionally, more than 5,200 Static Surveillance Teams are on hand to oversee activities throughout the election period.

The poll body has reminded political parties of their responsibilities during elections, noting that they must inform police authorities in advance about public gatherings and processions to ensure appropriate traffic management and security arrangements.

Parties are also required to adhere to any prohibitory orders and secure the necessary permissions for the use of loudspeakers and other related facilities.

"Ministers are prohibited from combining their official duties with election campaigning or utilizing government resources for campaign activities," the Commission emphasized.

The Election Commission further clarified that officials at all levels are to remain neutral while enforcing the MCC, ensuring fair treatment for all political parties.

Authorities have been instructed to prevent any misuse of official resources and to conduct meetings, processions, and voting arrangements fairly while maintaining law and order and safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

The Commission also announced the activation of the SUVIDHA module on the ECINET platform, allowing political parties to apply for the use of public spaces such as maidans and helipads, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.