Election Commission extends poll neutrality rules to retired officials

The Election Commission of India has extended Model Code of Conduct neutrality restrictions to retired government officials and other people engaged or re-employed by state governments in five states preparing for assembly elections. The rules apply during the code period to personnel without specific guidelines governing their political neutrality and conduct, the Commission said in a letter to state officials on November 9.

The directive covers Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Covered personnel must not take part in election campaigns or canvassing, or use their names, official positions or authority to favour a political party, candidate or individual. The Commission also barred them from summoning election-related officers in constituencies or districts where polls have been announced for official discussions, meetings or video conferences.

The Commission warned that violations would be viewed seriously and instructed the states to ensure compliance. It also said Model Code provisions apply to organisations, committees, corporations and commissions funded wholly or partly by the government, as well as their employees.

A senior Commission official said the...