The Election Commission of India (ECI) has rolled out stringent directives to ensure the smooth and impartial conduct of the upcoming Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, emphasising zero tolerance for violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
The ECI announced the poll schedule on October 6, 2025, triggering the immediate enforcement of the MCC across the state. This code extends to the Central Government, restricting any announcements or policy decisions specifically targeting Bihar. Chief Secretary and Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar have been instructed to oversee compliance without delay.
Key measures include the prompt removal of all defacement from government, public, and private properties. The ECI has banned the misuse of official vehicles or government accommodations by political parties, candidates, or election-related individuals. Advertisements at public expense are strictly prohibited during the election period.
Privacy remains a priority, with directives against demonstrations or picketing outside private residences. No land, buildings, or walls can be used for flags, banners, or posters without the explicit consent of the owner.
To bolster enforcement, the ECI has activated a robust complaint monitoring system. Citizens and political parties can lodge grievances via the 24/7 Call Centre at 1950, directed to the District Election Officer (DEO) or Returning Officer (RO). Additionally, the C-Vigil App on the ECINET portal allows real-time reporting of MCC violations. With 824 Flying Squads deployed statewide, the ECI guarantees response times within 100 minutes.
Political parties must notify police in advance about meetings and processions to facilitate traffic management, security, and adherence to prohibitory orders. Permissions for loudspeakers and other facilities are mandatory.
Ministers are barred from blending official visits with electioneering and cannot deploy government machinery, transport, or personnel for campaigning. A complete freeze on transfers of election-related officers and officials has also been imposed to maintain neutrality.
Officials at every level are urged to enforce the MCC impartially, treating all parties equally and curbing misuse of official resources. They must fairly regulate meetings, processions, and polling stations while upholding law and order to preserve electoral integrity.
Public venues like maidans and helipads will be accessible to all parties on equal terms. The SUVIDHA module on ECINET is now live, enabling parties to apply for these spaces on a first-come, first-served basis.
These steps underscore the ECI’s commitment to a level playing field, fostering credible and transparent elections in Bihar.
