UPSC Mains 2022 GS2 Q15 — Election Commission
Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Discuss
- Scope keywords
- role of the Election Commission of IndiaevolutionModel Code of Conduct
- Implicit sub-parts
- Origin and early voluntary nature of MCC (1960s-1970s)
- Strengthening and enforcement phase (T.N. Seshan era and after)
- ECI's current role in balancing free speech with fair elections
- Contemporary challenges like social media, hate speech, and the 'rule of law' versus 'moral authority' debate
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time on general ECI powers under Article 324 without linking them to the MCC
- Failing to trace the 'evolution' chronologically, resulting in a static list of MCC rules
- Ignoring the non-statutory nature of the MCC and why the ECI prefers it over legislative backing
- Neglecting recent controversies like the 'c-VIGIL' app or the MCC's efficacy in the digital age
- Dimensions required
- HistoricalConstitutionalAdministrativeTechnologicalLegal-Judicial
- Marks allocation hint
Dedicate 50 words to the historical origin and early status of MCC. Allocate 100 words to the 'evolution' phase, highlighting how ECI's role shifted from a silent observer to a proactive enforcer. Use the final 100 words to discuss modern role complexities, including judicial interpretations and digital challenges, ensuring a balanced conclusion on whether MCC needs statutory teeth.
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