Q. Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct.

Model Answer: 

Role of Election Commission: Evolution of Model Code of Conduct

The Election Commission of India (ECI), a constitutional body, plays a pivotal role in conducting free and fair elections. Central to its function is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), which has significantly evolved over time, shaping the ECI’s responsibilities and authority.

The MCC’s evolution has been instrumental in defining the ECI’s role:

• Origin in 1960s: Voluntary agreement among political parties
• 1990s: Transition to an enforceable code
• 2000s: Expansion to cover various aspects of campaigning (e.g., social media usage)

As the MCC evolved, the ECI’s role expanded:

1. Implementation and enforcement:
– Issuing guidelines and notifications
– Monitoring campaign activities
– Taking action against violations (e.g., campaign bans, FIRs)

2. Expansion of powers:
– Regulating campaign finances
– Overseeing media coverage
– Transferring officials to ensure neutrality

3. Maintaining level playing field:
– Restricting government announcements during elections
– Regulating opinion polls and exit polls
– Ensuring equal access to public spaces for campaigning

The ECI’s enhanced role has led to both praise and criticism:

• Positive impact: Improved electoral integrity, reduced malpractices
• Challenges: Balancing free speech and fair elections, enforcing MCC in digital age
• Controversies: Allegations of selective enforcement, overreach (e.g., PM’s biopic ban)

The ECI has used its powers to address emerging issues:

– Regulating social media campaigns
– Monitoring paid news and fake news
– Implementing VVPAT for transparency

However, the ECI faces ongoing challenges in MCC enforcement:

• Limited legal backing for MCC
• Resource constraints in monitoring vast elections
• Keeping pace with evolving campaign tactics

Conclusion: The MCC’s evolution has transformed the ECI from a mere election conductor to a powerful regulator, shaping India’s electoral landscape.