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New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a reminder to all media platforms and broadcasters regarding strict adherence to the “silence period” and exit poll restrictions ahead of next month’s Bihar Assembly elections and by-elections.
As per the schedule, voting for Bihar Assembly elections will be held in two phases – November 6 and November 11.
Citing Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Election Commission reiterated that no election-related material can be displayed through television, radio or similar media during the 48 hours before the end of polling in each phase.
During this “silent period”, channels and networks are prohibited from airing or broadcasting any content that may influence voter behavior or affect the electoral prospects of a political party or candidate.
This includes discussions, debates or opinions that could be construed as campaign propaganda. Moreover, under Section 126A of the same Act, conduct and publication of exit polls is strictly banned from 7 am on November 6 to 6.30 pm on November 11.
This ban covers all forms of dissemination – print, electronic and digital. The ECI stressed that violation of these provisions could lead to imprisonment of up to two years, fine or both.
The Election Commission urged all media organizations to fully comply with the instructions to maintain the sanctity and fairness of the electoral process.
In the press note, the poll panel appealed to broadcasters, journalists and digital platforms to maintain “the spirit of free and fair elections” by avoiding any content that promotes or biases electoral prospects during the prohibited period.
Notably, on Friday, the poll panel directed that all polling stations in the upcoming assembly elections and by-elections in eight-assembly constituencies of Bihar be equipped with assured minimum facilities (AMF) and voter assistance measures to ensure a seamless and respectful voting experience for all voters.
Announcing this in a press note, the ECI said the directive is aimed at providing a voter-friendly environment and maintaining accessibility standards at all polling stations.
–IANS
SAS/PGH