MCC violations: 9 FIRs registered, five employees suspended

Jammu: In a stern response to violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) following the announcement of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections, the Election Department has registered 9 FIRs and suspended 5 government employees for their involvement in political activities. Additionally, warnings have been issued in 23 cases, and inquiries have been initiated in 48 instances of MCC violations.
According to a statement from the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Jammu and Kashmir, a total of 175 violations have been reported across the Union Territory since the imposition of the MCC on August 16, 2024. These violations include 96 reports against political parties and candidates, 53 against government employees, 2 against media personnel, and 24 against others.
After investigations conducted by the Field Surveillance Teams (FSTs) and Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs), 89 violations were found to be baseless and were subsequently dropped. However, in more serious cases, five government employees in Srinagar were suspended for participating in political activities, and inquiries are ongoing.
The MCC is a set of guidelines established by the Election Commission of India to ensure the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. It remains in effect from the time the election schedule is announced until the completion of the election process.