In Maharashtra, the present scenario of drought has triggered the Chief Minister to take affirmative action. Writing to the Election Commission (EC), the Chief Minister has asked for a relaxation in the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The MCC has been in force since March 10, intending to regulate the Lok Sabha polls. The request made centres around initiating drought relief measures for the state in the face of an overwhelming environmental crisis.
Maharashtra’s Drought Crisis
As many as 151 talukas in Maharashtra have been confirmed as drought-affected regions. Given this grim reality, certain infrastructural works such as drilling of borewells, repairs to drinking water schemes etc., are of top priority. These, however, cannot be implemented without the EC’s authorization due to the active MCC.
Understanding the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines developed and distributed by the Election Commission. These regulations aim to manage the behaviours of political parties and candidates during the election period. They outline the specific actions that are permitted and those that are prohibited during this time, ensuring a fair and uncompromised electoral process.
Precedents for MCC Relaxations
According to the Election Commission’s guidelines established on March 5, 2009, some exemptions to the MCC can be provided under certain circumstances. These exceptions generally apply to work-projects that are already on the ground or beneficiary-projects where beneficiaries have been pre-identified before the implementation of the MCC.
Additionally, in cases of dire necessity, such as natural disasters, emergency relief works and measures meant specifically for the hardship alleviation of the affected individuals can be allowed, provided the Election Commission is informed.
Key Facts About Maharashtra’s Drought
| Number of Affected Talukas | Proposed Relief Measures |
|---|---|
| 151 | Drilling of borewells, repair of drinking water schemes |
The Request for an Exception
Keeping the current drought crisis in view, the Chief Minister’s request takes into account the three types of works allowed by the EC during the active period of the MCC. The proposed relief measures fall directly under the category of emergency actions, aimed at relieving the hardships faced by the residents of Maharashtra’s drought-stricken regions. In order to alleviate the suffering of these people, the Chief Minister has appealed to the Election Commission for a much-needed exception to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
Last Modified: February 6, 2024