Tue Oct 07 01:30:00 UTC 2025: **Headline: Model Code of Conduct Imposed in Bihar as Assembly Elections Announced**
**Patna, [Date]** – With the announcement of the Bihar Assembly Elections, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has immediately come into effect across the state. These guidelines, designed to ensure free and fair elections, place restrictions on government activities and aim to prevent any undue influence on voters.
Under the MCC, ministers are prohibited from using government vehicles, including helicopters, for election campaigning. They can only use private or rented vehicles, and the expenses will be counted towards their election expenditure. All photos of political leaders must be removed from government websites within 48 hours. Defacing public or private property with wall writings, posters, or banners is strictly prohibited under the Bihar Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1985.
The MCC, which remains in force until the election results are announced, also restricts the announcement of new schemes and prohibits the misuse of government machinery. All advertisements will require pre-certification, and broadcasting or publishing without permission is banned.
Political parties and candidates must refrain from personal attacks, communal appeals, and any activities that incite caste-based sentiments. Criticism should be limited to policies and programs.
Restrictions are also in place for public gatherings. Political parties and candidates must obtain prior permission for meetings and rallies, ensuring that they do not cause noise pollution or traffic obstruction. The use of educational institutions for political activities is prohibited, and processions are limited to a specific number of vehicles, with prior notification to the police. The use of loudspeakers is restricted, particularly between 10 PM and 6 AM, and is completely banned 48 hours before polling.
Within 100 meters of polling stations, campaigning and gathering of crowds are strictly prohibited. Providing alcohol or transportation to voters is also forbidden. Each candidate is limited to a small number of authorized vehicles, and unauthorized vehicles will be confiscated. Voters are encouraged to cooperate with polling officials.
These rules are to be followed with utmost dilligence and are aimed at creating level playing field for all contesting parties and candidates.
First Piper 