EC Directs Home Ministry to Enforce Strict Compliance with Election Code of Conduct
The Election Commission has urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to take all necessary measures to prevent prohibited activities during the election period, emphasizing strict enforcement of existing laws to ensure a free, fair, and orderly electoral process.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, the Commission called for immediate action against any violations detected during the campaign prohibition period and instructed the Ministry to submit detailed reports of enforcement measures to the Commission without delay.
The Commission has directed the Home Ministry to inform all Chief District Officers and security agencies to strictly implement the election code of conduct starting from 12:00 midnight on March 4, when the legally mandated silence period comes into effect ahead of voting on March 5.
During this period, all forms of election campaigning and promotional activities are prohibited. Authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant and take prompt action against any attempts to influence voters unlawfully.
The District Code of Conduct Monitoring Committee has been tasked with deploying designated personnel and mechanisms to monitor and address violations. The committee will take action in accordance with Section 24 of the Election (Offense and Punishment) Act, 2073, as well as Sections 17 and 18 of the Election Code of Conduct, 2082.
The Commission has also directed that all actions taken against offenders be documented and reported to ensure transparency and accountability in enforcement.
To maintain public order and minimize electoral misconduct, the Commission has called for a complete ban on the sale, distribution, and consumption of intoxicants starting seven days prior to the election date and continuing until the final election results are announced.
Officials say the restriction is aimed at preventing disturbances, voter intimidation, and other activities that could undermine the integrity of the election.
The Commission has announced a nationwide restriction on the operation of public and private vehicles from 12:00 midnight on March 4 until voting concludes on March 5.
Exceptions will be granted only to vehicles providing essential services, including:
i. Ambulances and emergency medical services
ii. Fire trucks and disaster-response vehicles
iii. Hearses and blood transfusion service vehicles
iv. Security agency vehicles
v. Electricity, drinking water, and sewage repair vehicles
vi. Telecommunication maintenance vehicles
Vehicles belonging to diplomatic missions and those issued special election-day permits will also be allowed to operate.
Despite the transportation restrictions, the Commission clarified that both domestic and international flights will continue operating as scheduled on voting day. Passengers holding valid tickets will be allowed to travel between airports and their homes or hotels using vehicles arranged by private parties or their respective airlines.
The Election Commission stated that these measures are intended to maintain peace, discipline, and neutrality during the sensitive pre-election period. By mobilizing administrative and security mechanisms across districts, the Commission aims to prevent electoral offenses and uphold the credibility of the democratic process.
Officials have reiterated their call for cooperation from political parties, candidates, media, and the general public to fully comply with the code of conduct and contribute to a smooth and transparent election.
