SEC Halts Advance Payments for Madhya Pradesh's Ladli Behna Scheme
State Election Commission stops advance payments for Ladli Behna scheme due to poll code.
Photo by Mufid Majnun
Key Facts
SEC halted advance payments for Ladli Bahna scheme
Reason: Violation of model code of conduct
Location: Madhya Pradesh
Allegation: Government trying to influence voters
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Election Commission, Model Code of Conduct
GS Paper II: Social Justice - Welfare schemes and their impact
Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical questions on the role of ECI
Visual Insights
Ladli Behna Scheme: Geographic Coverage
Map showing the state of Madhya Pradesh, where the Ladli Behna scheme is implemented. The SEC's action impacts the entire state during the panchayat elections.
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More Information
Background
The concept of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in India evolved from conventions developed during the initial general elections. The Election Commission of India (ECI) formally adopted the MCC in 1968, refining it over the years. Its legal basis is derived from the ECI's powers under Article 324 of the Constitution, which grants it superintendence, direction, and control of elections.
While not legally enforceable per se, the MCC carries significant moral and persuasive weight. Violations can lead to ECI directives and, in some cases, legal action under relevant laws. The MCC aims to ensure free and fair elections by preventing misuse of official machinery, partisan behavior, and inducements to voters.
Latest Developments
In recent years, the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct has become increasingly stringent, with the ECI taking a proactive stance against violations. The use of social media for campaigning has presented new challenges, requiring the ECI to develop mechanisms for monitoring online content and addressing instances of misinformation and hate speech.
There's ongoing debate about making the MCC legally binding to enhance its effectiveness. Future trends include greater reliance on technology for monitoring and enforcement, as well as increased public awareness campaigns to promote compliance with the MCC.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in India: 1. The MCC is legally enforceable and violations can lead to imprisonment. 2. The MCC comes into effect immediately after the announcement of elections by the Election Commission of India. 3. The MCC guidelines apply only to the ruling party at the Centre and not to state governments. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect because the MCC is not legally enforceable per se. Statement 3 is incorrect because the MCC applies to all political parties and governments.
2. With reference to the powers of the State Election Commission (SEC) in India, which of the following statements is NOT correct? A) The SEC is responsible for conducting elections to local bodies like Panchayats and Municipalities. B) The SEC is an independent constitutional authority. C) The Governor of the state appoints the State Election Commissioner. D) The SEC can be superseded by the Election Commission of India during a general election.
- A.A
- B.B
- C.C
- D.D
Show Answer
Answer: D
The SEC is responsible for local body elections and operates independently within its jurisdiction. It cannot be superseded by the ECI during general elections, as their jurisdictions are distinct.
3. Which of the following actions by a state government would most likely be considered a violation of the Model Code of Conduct during Panchayat elections? A) Announcing new infrastructure projects in rural areas after the election dates are announced. B) Transferring officials who are responsible for maintaining law and order during the election period. C) Increasing the amount of financial assistance provided under an existing welfare scheme before the elections. D) Conducting routine administrative transfers of non-election related staff.
- A.A
- B.B
- C.C
- D.D
Show Answer
Answer: C
Increasing financial assistance under a welfare scheme before elections could be seen as an attempt to influence voters, violating the MCC.