The Election Commission has issued an order to regulate political advertisements across electronic and digital media in preparation for the upcoming state assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, as well as by-elections in six other states.
According to the order, all political parties, candidates, and even individuals or organizations must obtain approval for their advertisements before publishing them. This approval must be obtained from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC).
This rule applies to advertisements shown on television, radio, public display screens, e-papers, bulk SMS, voice messages, and social media platforms. The commission has stated that candidates and individuals can apply for certification at the District MCMC. Meanwhile, political parties with headquarters in a State or Union Territory must apply to the State-level MCMC. Applications must be submitted within the specified timelines.
The electoral body has stated that no political advertisements can be released to any internet-based media or websites, including social media, by political parties or candidates without pre-certification from the respective MCMC. It has also directed the MCMCs to maintain strict vigilance on suspected cases of paid news in the media and take appropriate action. The commission further stated that candidates are required to provide details of their authentic social media accounts in their nomination affidavits.
The commission has also stated that political parties should submit a statement of expenditure incurred on campaigning through the internet, including social media websites, to the electoral body within 75 days of the completion of the assembly elections.
The ECI has also established an Appellate Committee at the state level, headed by the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), where parties or candidates can challenge decisions made by the MCMC. The Commission has clearly stated that no political advertisement can be published online or on social media without prior approval. Strict action will be taken against violations.
In addition, the MCMCs have been instructed to closely monitor cases of paid news in the media and take necessary action wherever required. These steps have been taken to ensure transparency and fairness in election campaigns.
