Breaking: ECI extends Model Code of Conduct to retired officials re-employed by Govt
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, November 11, 2026: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has extended the restrictions under the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) to retired government officials who are subsequently re-employed or engaged by state governments, making it clear that retirement does not exempt them from election-related neutrality requirements.
The decision comes ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections in five states and Union Territories — Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur.
Under the revised directions, retired officials working with government departments or in other government-linked assignments will also have to maintain political neutrality during the election period. They cannot participate in election campaigns or canvass in support of any political party or candidate.
The Election Commission has also restricted such officials from holding meetings with election-related officers in constituencies where elections have been announced. They cannot summon these officers for official discussions or conduct video conferences with them on election-related matters.