The order is particularly aimed at retired officials
In an order issued on Nov 9, the Commission said such retired officials must follow the same restrictions as serving govt employees whenever the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is in force. LUCKNOW: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed the Uttar Pradesh govt to ensure that retired govt officials who have been re-employed or appointed to various posts do not participate in political activities during elections.
Earlier reporting noted: ECI extends neutrality restrictions re-employed officials in poll-bound states The Election Commission of India (ECI) has extended political neutrality restrictions to retired officials and others re-employed, engaged, or attached to state governments during the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) period in Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where assembly elections are due in 2027. The Commission also directed that these officials cannot call election-related officers for meetings or hold video conferences with them in districts or constituencies where elections have been announced. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Lucknow | Silver Rate in Lucknow | Bank Holidays in Lucknow | Public Holidays in Lucknow | Lucknow AQI | Weather in Lucknow | Petrol Price in Lucknow | Diesel Price in Lucknow | CNG Price in Lucknow | LPG Price in Lucknow Stay updated with the latest Lucknow news. Earlier reporting noted: The letter barred these officials from summoning any election-related officer of a constituency or district where polls have been announced, whether for official discussions, meetings or video conferences.
Earlier reporting noted: “The Commission hereby directs that restrictions and prohibitions applicable to government servants shall similarly apply to individuals including retired government officials/ officers/ employees attached or engaged or employed or re-employed in various capacities by State/ UT Governments, for whom there are no specific guidelines or rules relating to their political neutrality and conduct during MCC period,” the letter said. It warned that any act of omission or commission contrary to the directions “shall be viewed seriously”. This means they cannot campaign for political parties or candidates, seek votes or use their official positions to favour any political party. The order is particularly aimed at retired officials appointed to govt positions where no specific rules exist to regulate their political activities. Apart from Uttar Pradesh, the instructions have also been issued to Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur. The Commission clarified that the restrictions also apply to employees of organisations, corporations, committees and commissions funded fully or partially by the govt. The ECI has asked the UP govt to inform all concerned officials about the instructions and ensure strict compliance, warning that any violation would be viewed seriously. Download the TOI App.