ECI bans exit poll in upcoming assembly elections
NATIONAL: The Election Commission of India has enforced a ban on exit polls related to the upcoming general elections for the Legislative Assemblies in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry as well as for bye-elections in eight Assembly constituencies across six states.
This ban is effective from 7 am on April 9 until 6:30 pm on April 29 prohibiting the conduct, publication or dissemination of exit poll results through any medium, including print and electronic outlets. This directive is aligned with the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which empowers the Election Commission to regulate such activities during electoral processes.
Violators of this order may face penalties, which can include fines or imprisonment.
Moreover, the Commission has stipulated that the display of opinion poll results or similar survey data will not be allowed within 48 hours preceding the end of polling in the affected regions. The notification regarding this ban has been disseminated to relevant authorities, including media organisations, to ensure strict adherence during the election period.