New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued directions to retired government officials who are engaged/re-employed by State Governments to maintain political neutrality in the same manner as active government officials do during the Model Code of Conduct period.
The directions have been issued to those who are working in different capacities with State and Union Territory Governments of Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand where Assembly elections are to be held in 2027.
“Such persons should refrain from taking any part in any election campaigning, canvassing or any activity which can be seen to indicate support for any political party/candidate,” the Commission said in a communication to the Chief Secretaries and Chief Electoral Officers of the five states.
They have also been asked not to allow their names/designations/position to be used to benefit any individual/political party/group.
MCC Rules for Retired Officials in Government
Public servants are expected to remain neutral during elections. Hence, they should not engage in any activity which can be seen to influence the voters or benefit any political organisation.
“Government officials shall not engage in election campaigning/canvassing at all. They should be very careful not to use their position/authority to help any political party/candidate,” the Commission reiterated.
The Model Code of Conduct does not just cover regular government departments and officials, but also applies to organisations, committees, corporations and commissions receiving full/funded government funding and their staff.
While the Conduct Rules in the respective states prohibit active government officials from engaging in political activity and election campaigning, there was no specific guidance in relation to Retired Officials engaged in different capacities with State or UT Governments.
Therefore, retired government officials/officers/staff attached to State/Union Territory Governments have been included in the same restrictions.
Restrictions on Interaction with Election Officials
The Commission has also placed specific restrictions.
- “Retired Officials who fall under these directions shall not call for any meeting/discussion with election officials posted in constituencies/districts where elections have been notified. Further, video conferencing/any meetings with such officials shall not be permitted during MCC period.”
- “Any omission or commission of any act in contravention of the Commission’s directions shall be viewed seriously.”
- “If there is any omission/commission of any activity contrary to the directions of the Commission it will be taken very seriously,”
- The Commission has advised the respective states to ensure that the directions are circulated to all relevant departments/organizations/individuals.