Gram Panchayat Model Code

RSD_Telangana news: Gram Panchayat elections model code clear rules.

1. Prohibitions on activities of administration & officials: The Model Code comes into force from the moment the election notification is issued. Government officials and staff should not participate in election campaigning. Announcements, foundation stones and inaugurations of development works carried out with government funds are completely prohibited. Only works already underway can continue, but tenders for new works should not be given.
2. Provisions on promises made to the public: Candidates or parties should not give inappropriate attractions, gifts, money, liquor and goods to the public. No announcements or promises should be made that influence voters.
3. Clear Rules on Campaigning: Placing of campaign material in public places like schools, government buildings and temples is prohibited. Use of loudspeakers, permission from the local police is mandatory, permitted only during fixed hours (usually from 6 am to 10 pm). Rallies, foot marches, bike rallies, prior permission is mandatory. Personal insults, hate speeches, and religious ethnic incitement remarks against other candidates should not be made.
4. Rules related to vehicles: A permission certificate is mandatory for campaign vehicles. If unlicensed vehicles are used in campaigning, the authorities have the power to seize them. Multiple speakers and loud sound devices are prohibited on vehicles.
5. Posters, banners, flags: Promotional posters are prohibited on government buildings, educational institutions, and electricity poles. Written permission of the building owner is mandatory for putting up campaign boards on private buildings. Flags/banners should not be put up in public places without permission.
6. Polling Day (Voting Day) Rules: Complete prohibition on campaigning within 200 meters of a polling station. Distributing pamphlets, walking around with party symbols, and putting up boards are prohibited. Multiple people should not stand in groups at voting centers.
7. Prohibition of undue influence on voters: Distribution of money, gift packets, beer/liquor, flowers/scarves is a crime. Threatening, pressuring, and enticing voters is a crime.
8. Social media regulations: Every post promoted by candidates on social media must be legal. Fake news, personal criticism, and posts inciting violence are prohibited. Sponsored advertisements must be shown in the expense account.
9. Rules on election expenses: Each candidate must record details of his expenses on a daily basis. Election officials will conduct regular checks. Action will be taken if the expenses exceed the limit.
10. Law Enforcement: In case of violation of Model Code:- FIR registration, notices, Cancellation of candidature (in serious violation), Seizure of campaign vehicles.