ECI bars retired officials hired by states from poll campaign activities

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has clarified that retired government officials employed by state governments on contractual or temporary bases must adhere to model code of conduct provisions during elections. The directive ensures that such personnel maintain political impartiality and refrain from actively participating in election campaigns or canvassing activities.

The ECI's move aims to prevent the misuse of administrative machinery during electoral processes. Retired officials engaged by states, whether for specific projects or administrative support, fall under the purview of election conduct rules and must observe the same restrictions as regular government employees.

Under the model code of conduct, government servants are prohibited from engaging in partisan political activities, using official resources for campaign purposes, or influencing voters through their administrative positions. The extension of these restrictions to retired personnel reflects the commission's commitment to ensuring free and fair elections across the country.

The directive applies to all categories of retired officials on state payroll during the election period, regardless of their designation or tenure. The ECI has emphasized that violations of these provisions may invite action under electoral laws and rules governing government employee conduct.