Chennai, March 24: The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a complete ban on the operation, publication, or dissemination of exit polls during the assembly elections on Tuesday.
According to the schedule, voting will take place on April 9 in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, while Tamil Nadu will vote on April 23. West Bengal will conduct voting in two phases on April 23 and 29. The counting of votes is set for May 4.
This ban will be effective from 7 AM on April 9, coinciding with the start of voting in the first state among the five states and Union Territories, and will remain in effect until 6:30 PM on April 29, marking the conclusion of voting across all phases.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, prohibits the display or promotion of exit poll results through print, electronic media, or any other form of communication during the specified period.
The aim of this measure is to ensure free and fair elections by preventing any undue influence on voters during the voting process across various regions of the country.
In Tamil Nadu, elections are scheduled for April 23, with voting taking place from 7 AM to 6 PM. The state is witnessing a vigorous electoral contest, with major political parties and alliances ramping up their campaigning efforts ahead of the voting day.
Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik reiterated in a statement that, in addition to the comprehensive exit poll ban, strict restrictions will also apply to opinion polls and related electoral content during the final phase of campaigning.
According to the law, displaying any election-related content, including opinion poll results or survey findings, on electronic media is prohibited during the 48 hours leading up to the end of voting in any state.
This ‘period’ aims to provide voters with a calm and uninterrupted environment to make their electoral decisions without being influenced by speculative predictions or electoral messages. The commission has consistently enforced these provisions in previous elections to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
Officials stated that any violation of these guidelines will result in punitive action under the Representation of the People Act and other applicable laws.
Media organizations, digital platforms, and political stakeholders have been advised to strictly adhere to these regulations.
As electoral activities intensify in Tamil Nadu and other states and Union Territories, strict compliance with these restrictions is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining a fair environment and safeguarding the democratic process.
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My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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