New Delhi, April 2 (MExN): The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reiterated strict restrictions on the display of election-related content during the silence period and prohibited the conduct and dissemination of exit polls for the ongoing General Elections and bye-elections 2026.
In a press note issued on Thursday, the ECI stated that displaying any election matter through television or similar media is prohibited in a polling area during the 48-hour silence period preceding the conclusion of polling, as per Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Accordingly, the Commission directed all television channels, radio stations and cable networks to ensure that programmes aired during this period do not include any content such as discussions, panel views or appeals that could influence voters or promote any political party or candidate. The restriction also extends to the broadcast or display of opinion polls.
The silence period for the first phase of polling on April 9 will commence from the evening of April 7 and continue until the close of polling on April 9, with similar restrictions applicable for subsequent phases in other states.
Assam, Kerala and Puducherry will go to polls on April 9.
The bye-election to the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency in Nagaland is also scheduled on the same day.
Tamil Nadu will vote on April 23, while polling in West Bengal will be held in two phases—April 23 and April 29. Bye-elections are also slated in seven other Assembly constituencies across Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tripura.
Meanwhile, under Section 126A of the Act, the Commission has imposed a blanket ban on exit polls and their dissemination through print or electronic media from 7:00 AM on April 9 to 6:30 PM on April 29.
“Violation of Section 126A of the R.P. Act, 1951 is punishable with imprisonment up to two years, or with fine, or both,” the ECI cautioned.
The Commission has advised all media houses to strictly adhere to these guidelines to ensure free and fair elections.
