The Election Commission of India has extended political neutrality rules to retired government officials working with state governments in five poll-bound states. The decision has been taken ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. The five states covered under this order are Uttar Pradesh Goa Manipur Punjab and Uttarakhand.
According to the Election Commission retired officials who are working again in government positions must follow the same rules as serving government employees during the Model Code of Conduct period. Under the new directions these officials cannot participate in election campaigns or support any political party or candidate. They are also not allowed to use their official position or influence to favour any political group.
The Election Commission has also made it clear that such officials cannot call election-related officers for official meetings or video conferences in areas where elections have been announced. The commission said that any violation of these instructions will be taken seriously. The main aim of this decision is to ensure fair elections and maintain political neutrality among people working with the government. With assembly elections approaching in these five states the Election Commission wants to make sure that every party gets a fair chance and the election process remains free from government influence.
