UPSC Prelims Practice Questions — EC continues transfers in West Bengal

Q1. With reference to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) as invoked during the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, consider the following statements: 1. The MCC originated as a voluntary code framed during the 1960 Kerala Assembly elections and remains non-statutory in character. 2. The MCC derives its binding force from the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and not from any constitutional provision. 3. Once the MCC comes into force on the date of election announcement, the Election Commission of India can direct the transfer of state government officers engaged in election work without the concurrence of the state government. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The MCC originated as a voluntary code framed during the 1960 Kerala Assembly elections and remains non-statutory in character.
The MCC derives its binding force from the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and not from any constitutional provision.
Once the MCC comes into force on the date of election announcement, the Election Commission of India can direct the transfer of state government officers engaged in election work without the concurrence of the state government.

A. A statutory code enacted under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, breach of which is a cognisable offence
B. A non-statutory set of guidelines for political parties, candidates and governments that derives force from the ECI's powers under Article 324 and operates from the date of election announcement until the declaration of results
C. A constitutional code prescribed under Article 324A regulating campaign-finance limits for recognised political parties
D. A service code under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules applicable to officers deputed for election duty