With polling for Assembly and bye-elections across multiple states scheduled through April, the Election Commission of India on Thursday reiterated restrictions on the dissemination of election-related content during the mandatory 48-hour “silence period”.
The poll body also imposed a ban on exit polls from April 9 to April 29, covering the entire duration of the elections.
As per the notified schedule, polling in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry will be held on April 9, followed by Tamil Nadu on April 23. West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
Citing provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Commission said that displaying or broadcasting election-related content through television, radio or similar media is prohibited in polling areas during the 48-hour silence period, which ends with the close of voting in each phase.
The silence period begins 48 hours prior to the end of polling in a constituency. During this time, media platforms have been directed to avoid airing any material that could influence voters, including panel discussions, debates and opinion polls that may favour or prejudice any political party or candidate.
Additionally, under Section 126A of the Act, the conduct, publication or dissemination of exit polls through print, electronic or digital media will remain prohibited from 7:00 am on April 9 until 6:30 pm on April 29.
The Commission warned that violations of these provisions could attract penalties, including imprisonment of up to two years, a fine, or both. It also urged media organisations to strictly adhere to the guidelines to ensure free, fair and transparent elections.
