To enhance the effectiveness of the model code of conduct (MCC), measures must be taken to enhance its enforcement, transparency, inclusivity, and adaptability. Discuss.

Topic: Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

Topic: Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

3. To enhance the effectiveness of the model code of conduct (MCC), measures must be taken to enhance its enforcement, transparency, inclusivity, and adaptability. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question: The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) that parties and governments are expected to follow during election campaigning is well-meaning, but not easy to enforce. Key Demand of the question: To write about the ways to make model code of conduct more effective. Directive word: Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining model code of conduct. Body: First, mention the various features of MCC and its evolution since 1960 – enumerate the 7 Parts of the Code, Public meetings by political parties, Processions by political parties, Poll day conduct etc. Next, write about the various issues in MCC – does not specify the type of punishment, EC’s arbitrariness and individual bias, failure to provide for decisions to be made within a certain time frame etc. Next, write about the measures that are needed – providing clear guidelines, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, conducting public awareness campaigns, leveraging technology for monitoring, establishing independent oversight bodies, promptly adjudicating complaints etc. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward to make MCC more robust and effective.

Why the question:

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) that parties and governments are expected to follow during election campaigning is well-meaning, but not easy to enforce.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the ways to make model code of conduct more effective.

Directive word:

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by defining model code of conduct.

First, mention the various features of MCC and its evolution since 1960 – enumerate the 7 Parts of the Code, Public meetings by political parties, Processions by political parties, Poll day conduct etc.

Next, write about the various issues in MCC – does not specify the type of punishment, EC’s arbitrariness and individual bias, failure to provide for decisions to be made within a certain time frame etc.

Next, write about the measures that are needed – providing clear guidelines, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, conducting public awareness campaigns, leveraging technology for monitoring, establishing independent oversight bodies, promptly adjudicating complaints etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward to make MCC more robust and effective.