Previous Year Question
Given below are two statements:
Assertion [A]: Model code of conduct is to be followed by political parties as soon as an election is announced.
Reason [R]: Mode code of conduct was enacted by Parliament.
Choose the correct answer from the code given below:
Both [A] and [R] are correct and [R] is the correct explanation of [A].
Both [A] and [R] are true but [R] is not the correct explanation of [A].
[A] is true, but [R] is false.
[A] is false, but [R] is true.
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
Assertion (A) is correct. According to the Election Commission of India, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) comes into force from the date on which the election schedule is announced and remains operational until completion of the election process. Political parties, candidates and the party in power are required to observe it.
The MCC assists in maintaining free, fair and peaceful elections and a level playing field during the election process. The Election Commission ensures its observance while discharging its constitutional responsibilities under Article 324.
Reason (R) is incorrect. The Model Code of Conduct was not enacted by Parliament. According to the Election Commission's official explanation, it is a set of norms evolved through the consensus of political parties, which have agreed to observe its principles.
The distinction is important—the MCC itself is not a Parliamentary statute, although conduct during the MCC period may separately attract action if it violates an applicable election law or criminal law.