EC lifts Model Code of Conduct after Assembly polls

The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued an order on 7 May 2026 lifting the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the 2026 Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and the Union Territory of Puducherry. The MCC was also lifted for bye-elections in Assembly constituencies in Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Nagaland and Tripura after declaration of results.

Model Code of Conduct

The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the ECI under Article 324 of the Constitution of India. It comes into force during elections and regulates speeches, polling-day conduct, processions, meetings, and the use of official machinery by governments.

Falta Assembly Constituency

The MCC continues in West Bengal’s 144-Falta Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district. The ECI cancelled the entire voting process in Falta on 3 May 2026 after reports of electoral offences during polling on 29 April 2026. Allegations in Falta included tampering of Electronic Voting Machines in 60 polling stations. Fresh polling in all 285 polling stations, including auxiliary booths, is scheduled for 21 May 2026, and counting of votes is fixed for 24 May 2026.

Assembly Elections and Bye-elections

Assembly elections in India are conducted for the legislative assemblies of States and Union Territories with legislatures. Bye-elections are held when a seat becomes vacant before the end of the normal term of the House. The ECI conducts elections under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the election schedule is notified separately for each poll or bye-election.

Important Facts for Exams

• Article 324 of the Constitution gives the Election Commission of India the power of superintendence, direction and control of elections.
• The Model Code of Conduct is not a law, but the ECI enforces it through its constitutional powers and election instructions.
• West Bengal’s 144-Falta Assembly constituency is located in South 24 Parganas district.
• Electronic Voting Machines are used in Indian elections for recording votes in polling stations.