Chennai Election Commission Enforces Strict Model Code of Conduct for 2026 Assembly Polls
With the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) now in effect for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has announced a significant decision regarding political statues across the city. In a move that balances tradition with modern realities, the civic body has decided not to cover statues of deceased political leaders during the election period.
Statues to Remain Visible as Mark of Respect
"Their images are already there on social media and other places. Secondly, it is also a mark of respect to the leaders," explained Muthiah, the Teynampet executive engineer for GCC. This decision comes despite the Election Commission's general instruction to cover such statues, highlighting a nuanced approach to election decorum in Chennai.
Comprehensive Enforcement Measures Announced
On Tuesday, GCC officials conducted extensive meetings with various stakeholders to ensure strict MCC compliance. At a crucial gathering chaired by additional district election officer and joint commissioner (education) K Karpagam at Ripon Buildings, multiple directives were issued:
- Pawn brokers were explicitly warned against facilitating voter inducements, including returning pledged jewellery through tokens or bulk releases linked to candidates or their agents. Any violations would invite action under the Representation of the People Act, potentially including licence cancellation.
- Marriage and community hall owners were directed not to permit political gatherings disguised as social events without prior intimation. The distribution of cash, gifts, clothes, or food during functions is strictly prohibited, along with the use of political banners, cut-outs, or hoardings.
- Lodge owners received instructions to verify guest identities thoroughly and ensure that individuals arriving for poll-related work vacate promptly after campaigning concludes.
24/7 Monitoring Infrastructure in Place
Officials confirmed that the election control room and media certification and monitoring centre at Ripon Buildings are functioning round the clock, with staff operating on rotation schedules. Comprehensive surveillance measures have been implemented across all 16 assembly constituencies within Chennai, including:
- Deployment of flying squads for rapid response
- Special surveillance teams monitoring activities
- Video recording teams documenting potential violations
Complaints can be lodged through multiple channels, including the toll-free helpline 1800 425 7012 or via the official cVIGIL mobile application, ensuring accessibility for all citizens.
Financial Transaction Monitoring Intensified
In a separate meeting with bank officials, authorities outlined stringent financial monitoring protocols:
- Transactions exceeding 10 lakh rupees from savings accounts will be closely monitored and must be reported to both the district election office and the income tax department.
- Any unusual transfers exceeding 1 lakh rupees, including those from accounts of candidates, their dependants, or political parties, must be immediately flagged for investigation.
- Banks have been mandated to submit daily transaction reports to the election expenditure monitoring committee, creating a comprehensive financial oversight system.
This multi-faceted approach demonstrates Chennai's commitment to conducting free and fair elections, with particular attention to preventing financial inducements and ensuring transparent electoral processes. The combination of traditional respect for political leaders through uncovered statues and modern surveillance technology represents a balanced enforcement strategy for the 2026 assembly elections.
