Key restrictions for parties and candidates
The Election Commission has enforced the Election Code of Conduct to keep the March 5 polls free, fair and fear-free. Under the rules, political parties and candidates are barred from using government vehicles, offices, staff or budgets for campaign purposes. Direct or indirect distribution of cash, goods or feasts to influence voters is prohibited, regardless of the amount.
Hate speech, incitement to violence and any campaigning that undermines social harmony among ethnic, linguistic, religious, gender or regional groups is explicitly banned. Parties are also restricted from using temples, monasteries, mosques, churches and similar religious institutions as venues for campaign events.
The code extends to social media, where parties, candidates and public officials are instructed not to spread fabricated content or propagate messages that amount to campaigning during the legally defined silence period. Media outlets are expected to provide balanced coverage and avoid content that functions as hidden campaigning for any side.