Thiruvananthapuram, April 6 The CEO of Kerala, Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar, announced on Monday that election campaigning in the state will end at 6 pm on April 7, ahead of the Assembly polls, and outlined strict restrictions to be enforced during the 48-hour "silence period."
The crucial Assembly polls for 140 constituencies in the state are scheduled to be held on April 9.
The measures, issued to ensure free and fair elections, will come into effect 48 hours prior to the close of polling, with the aim of enabling voters to exercise their franchise without fear or influence, the chief electoral officer said in a statement.
According to Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, organizing or attending public meetings during this period is prohibited, the statement added.
Processions, rallies, musical events, theatrical performances, or any other form of entertainment aimed at influencing voters have also been banned.
The CEO said displaying election-related content through television, cinema, or similar devices will not be permitted during the silence period. The restriction will also apply to radio broadcasts, he added.
Further, political advertisements in newspapers on the day of polling and the preceding day will require prior approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC).
Leaders, party workers, and political functionaries from outside a constituency who are not voters there must leave the area immediately after the campaign period ends, the official said.
Kelkar urged all political parties, candidates, and the public to strictly adhere to the guidelines to ensure transparency and integrity in the electoral process.