Model Code of Conduct: how to report a concern through cVIGIL

Who this is for

A citizen who wants to understand the Model Code or report a possible violation during an election.

Before you start

Read the ECI’s current cVIGIL instructions. Report only what you personally observed and follow the app’s evidence and safety directions.

Key points

• The Model Code of Conduct is an ECI framework for political parties and candidates during the election period. This guide does not decide whether conduct violates the Code.
• ECI says cVIGIL is an official citizen channel for reporting suspected violations. The live app/portal controls what reports it accepts and how they are processed.

What to prepare

• A clear description of the observed incident.
• If the official app requests it, evidence captured and submitted according to its current instructions. Do not put yourself at risk to gather evidence.

Steps

1. Open the official ECI cVIGIL page or portal and read the current reporting instructions.
2. Use the official app or channel to submit a report. Describe where and when you observed the event as requested.
3. Attach evidence only in the way the official service asks. Do not edit material in a way that changes its meaning.
4. Save any complaint reference and use the official status feature. Avoid reposting a person’s private information publicly.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Treating a report as proof that a violation occurred.
• Confronting people or entering unsafe places to collect material.
• Expecting a particular response time or outcome based on an older election notice.

Short answers

If something goes wrong

• If the app fails, use the official portal or contact route linked by ECI.
• If the matter is urgent or involves immediate danger, use the appropriate local emergency channel rather than approaching anyone.
• For a report-status question, use the reference number and official service.