Haryana State Election Commissioner, Sh. Devinder Singh Kalyan chaired a meeting with representatives of political parties regarding the upcoming elections and said that all necessary preparations have been completed by the State Election Commission. He expressed confidence that, with collective cooperation, the electoral process will be conducted in a free, fair, transparent and peaceful manner. Guidelines issued by the Commission were also shared on the occasion.
Emphasis on Adherence to the Model Code of Conduct
Emphasising strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct, he informed that it has come into force from April 13, 2026, following the announcement of the election schedule and will remain effective till the completion of the elections. Representatives of all political parties were urged to fully comply with its provisions and cooperate in the electoral process.
The Code of Conduct mandates refraining from seeking votes on the basis of caste or religion, making misleading allegations, or damaging campaign material of other parties. Highlighting collective responsibility for peaceful elections, the State Election Commissioner said that offering inducements, intimidation of voters, or campaigning near polling stations must be strictly avoided.
It was also agreed to adhere to the rules of refraining from public meetings 48 hours prior to polling and not carrying out campaigning within a 100-metre radius of polling stations. He further said that maintaining peace and order during rallies and processions is a shared responsibility of all political parties.
Representatives were also urged to avoid provocative demonstrations, effigy burning, or any activity that could damage public property and instead promote a positive environment.
Focus on Transparency, Accountability, and Awareness
Referring to the Haryana Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1989, the State Election Commissioner said that it is everyone's duty to maintain the dignity of public property. He appealed to all stakeholders to ensure that public property is not defaced through posters, banners or other means. Relevant provisions of the Act were also explained.
The Commissioner also elaborated on the requirement for candidates to submit affidavits disclosing criminal cases and to publicise the same through newspapers and electronic media, with copies to be submitted to the concerned Deputy Commissioner. Similarly, political parties were also informed about the process for publishing the necessary information regarding such candidates on their websites and other media.
He further said that expenditure limits for candidates have been prescribed and strict compliance will be ensured. All candidates must maintain detailed accounts of election expenditure in the prescribed format, and action will be taken as per the rules for violating expenditure rules.
Special vigilance is also being maintained regarding paid news in social media and newspapers. Political parties were advised to use social media responsibly and refrain from spreading misleading or unlawful content.
The State Election Commissioner appealed to all political parties, candidates and concerned officers to contribute towards ensuring free, fair and peaceful elections through mutual cooperation, trust and positive participation. Secretary, State Election Commission, Haryana, Sh. Gaurav Kumar, along with senior representatives of various political parties, were present during the meeting.