Prelims MCQs for UPSC 2026 – Model Code of Conduct (MCC)

 

Prelims MCQs for UPSC 2026 – Model Code of Conduct (MCC)

Q1. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) comes into force:

A. On the date of filing nominations

B. On the date of election notification

C. On the date of announcement of election schedule

D. On the date of polling

✅ Answer: C

Explanation: MCC is enforced from the announcement of the election schedule by ECI.

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Q2. Which of the following statements about the MCC is/are correct?

1. It is a statutory code enacted by Parliament

2. It is enforced by the Election Commission of India

3. It derives its authority from Article 324

A. 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: B

Explanation: MCC is non-statutory, but enforced by ECI under Article 324.

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Q3. Under MCC, which of the following is NOT permitted for the party in power?

A. Routine administrative decisions

B. Announcement of new welfare schemes

C. Disaster relief measures

D. Payment of salaries

✅ Answer: B

Explanation: New schemes/projects that may influence voters are prohibited.

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Q4. Which constitutional article empowers the Election Commission of India to supervise elections?

A. Article 315

B. Article 324

C. Article 356

D. Article 368

✅ Answer: B

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Q5. Consider the following:

1. MCC is legally enforceable like an Act

2. Violations can lead to FIR under other laws

3. ECI can censure candidates

Which statements are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 2 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: B

Explanation: MCC itself is not law, but violations attract action via IPC/RP Act etc.

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Q6. Which of the following activities is restricted under MCC?

A. Use of official vehicles by ministers for campaigning

B. Private political meetings

C. Political debates on TV

D. Party manifestos

✅ Answer: A

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Q7. Manifestos under MCC guidelines should:

A. Avoid promises

B. Be approved by Parliament

C. Indicate financial implications

D. Be released after polling

✅ Answer: C

Explanation: As per Supreme Court guidance.

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Q8. MCC applies to:

A. Only political parties

B. Only ruling government

C. Political parties, candidates & party in power

D. Only candidates

✅ Answer: C

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Q9. Which body issues the MCC?

A. Parliament

B. Law Commission

C. Election Commission of India

D. Supreme Court

✅ Answer: C

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Q10. Which of the following is allowed under MCC?

A. Launching a new subsidy scheme

B. Advertising government achievements

C. Emergency disaster relief

D. Transferring officials without ECI approval

✅ Answer: C

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🎯 UPSC Trap Concepts Tested Here

✔ Non-statutory nature

✔ Article 324 linkage

✔ Party-in-power restrictions

✔ Manifesto norms

✔ Enforcement through other laws