India, Nov. 10 -- The Election Commission of India (ECI) has extended political neutrality restrictions to retired officials and others re-employed, engaged, or attached to state governments during the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) period in Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where assembly elections are due in 2027.

In a November 9 letter to the chief secretaries and chief electoral officers of the five states, the ECI noted that there are "no specific guidelines or Rules" on the political neutrality and conduct of such individuals during the MCC period. It directed that the restrictions and prohibitions on government servants "shall similarly apply" to them.

"The Commission hereby directs that restrictions and prohibit...