Model Code of Conduct in Effect: Rules for Maharashtra Municipal Elections 2026
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into force across Maharashtra’s election-bound municipal areas following the announcement of the civic poll schedule, and it establishes clear restrictions on government action, party campaigning and election administration until the completion of the electoral process.
Purpose and immediate effect
The MCC’s primary purpose is to ensure free, fair and impartial elections by preventing the use of state power, resources or office to influence voters during the election period. It takes effect immediately when the State Election Commission announces election dates and remains operative until the process—polling and counting—is complete.
Restrictions on the ruling government and officials
Under the MCC, the state and municipal governments must refrain from announcing or implementing policy measures, public projects, inaugurations or financial releases that could be perceived as influencing voters in favour of any party or candidate during the election period.
Government vehicles, official aircraft, staff and official residences cannot be used for campaigning or any activity that confers advantage to a political party or candidate. Routine administrative work continues, but any transfer, posting or appointment of officials that could affect the electoral process is either prohibited or requires prior approval from the election authority.
Limits on public expenditure, advertising and announcements
Public funds cannot be channelled into publicity, publicity campaigns or advertisements that promote a government’s or official’s achievements in a way that may have electoral advantage. New schemes or benefit announcements intended to influence voters are barred; permitted exceptions are narrowly defined and typically restricted to genuine emergency relief measures declared by competent authorities.
Rules for political parties, candidates and campaigning
Political parties and candidates must follow rules on the conduct of rallies, public meetings, processions and door-to-door campaigning. Prior police permission is generally required for larger public events; health, safety and noise regulations remain enforceable. Campaign material must not promote communal, caste-based or any other content that undermines public order or seeks votes on prohibited grounds.
Use of government symbols, emblems, buildings or personnel for campaign purposes is forbidden, and campaign expenditure limits and reporting obligations remain in force—candidates are required to maintain accurate records of expenses and submit them within the prescribed timeframe after the polls.
Media, advertisements and opinion polls
The MCC places restrictions on the use of official government advertising during the poll period. Media outlets are expected to follow guidelines that ensure balanced coverage; paid political advertising must comply with election rules. In some cases, the commission may issue specific directions regarding the timing and presentation of opinion polls and exit polls to avoid unduly influencing voters.
Conduct on polling day
Strict rules apply on polling day: campaigning is prohibited in and around polling stations within specified distances, and no persuasive activity, distribution of handbills or loudspeaker use is allowed. Only authorised personnel and voters with valid passes may enter polling booths. The MCC also underlines the impartiality expected of police and election officials during voting and counting.
Role of election authorities and observers
The State Election Commission is responsible for enforcing the MCC, issuing clarifications, and taking action against violations. Observers appointed by the commission monitor compliance, and complaints about breaches can be taken up with designated officials or election observers for investigation and remedial action.
Penalties and enforcement
Violations of the MCC can lead to a range of measures, from warnings and directives to restrain the offending activity, to stronger administrative or legal action including bar on public meetings, seizure of campaign material, or referral for prosecution where applicable. The commission’s objective in enforcement is to maintain a level playing field rather than to penalise unduly; however, repeated or serious breaches attract tougher responses.
Practical guidance for citizens and stakeholders
Voters should expect normal civic services to continue but also see restrictions on new government announcements related to benefits or projects. Political actors must plan campaigns within MCC limits—seeking necessary permits, following limits on public events, and ensuring expenditure records are kept. Media organisations and advertisers should coordinate with election authorities to ensure compliance with guidelines on coverage and paid messaging.
Why the MCC matters
By constraining the use of official power and ensuring uniform application of rules to all parties and candidates, the MCC aims to preserve electoral integrity and public confidence in the democratic process. For the Maharashtra municipal elections, adherence to the MCC will shape both the tone of campaigning and the administrative conduct of the state and municipal bodies until the conclusion of the polls.
Stakeholders—political parties, candidates, officials, media and voters—are advised to familiarise themselves with the commission’s specific instructions for these elections and to raise concerns about alleged violations through the prescribed channels so that the electoral process proceeds fairly and transparently.
