Model Code of Conduct comes into force in Haryana

Chandigarh, Sep 12: With the announcement of schedule for Assembly elections in Haryana, the Model Code of Conduct has come into force with immediate effect, Chief Electoral Officer Srikant Walgad said on Friday.

Polling for 90-member House will be held on October 15 and counting on October 19, the Election Commission announced in Delhi. Display of hoardings and advertisements at the cost of public exchequer and hoardings, advertisements or posters which were displayed prior to the announcement of poll schedule, constitutes violation of the Model Code as it provides an undue advantage to the party in power and has the effect of influencing voters, Walgad said.

He said hoarding and advertisements put up by the government which purports to give general information or convey general message to the masses on family planning or social welfare schemes might, however, be allowed to be displayed. But, all hoardings and advertisements which seek or purport to project the achievements of any living political functionary or political party and which carry their photos or name or party symbol should be removed forthwith, he said.

"Such hoardings undoubtedly amount to their individual or party election campaign at public cost," he said.

Walgad directed that no advertisement should be issued in newspapers and other media including electronic media at the cost of public exchequer during the election period.

He said the party in power would ensure that no cause is given for any complaint that it has used its official position for the purpose of election campaign.

PTI