EC Bans Exit Polls For Haryana Assembly Election Until October 5: Campaign Concludes Today

In a recent announcement, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has laid strict restrictions on the dissemination of exit polls for the forthcoming Assembly elections in Haryana. The prohibition, which extends to the publishing or broadcasting of exit poll results through print, electronic media, or any other form, comes into effect from the commencement of voting at 7:00 am on September 18, 2024, and will last until 6:30 pm on October 5, 2024.

Haryana Assembly Election: Campaign Concludes Today

This measure aims to ensure the integrity of the electoral process for the Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, which were announced simultaneously. Pankaj Agrawal, the Chief Electoral Officer of Haryana, conveyed the directive on Tuesday, specifying that the ban is in accordance with Section-126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

The law mandates that no exit polls can be conducted, published, or publicized until half an hour after the polling concludes on the designated day of voting. The regulation also extends to the display of any election-related material, including opinion poll results or any other survey findings, on electronic media during the 48-hour period leading up to the end of the polling process.

The ECI's mandate also includes severe penalties for those who breach these regulations. Individuals or organizations found violating Section 126A could face up to two years in prison, a fine, or both. This stringent action is intended to preserve the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. Media outlets have been explicitly instructed to adhere to these guidelines, highlighting the importance of compliance in maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process.

This enforcement of a blackout period for exit polls and election-related content underscores the commitment of the ECI to uphold electoral fairness. The prohibition period, starting from the morning of September 18 until the evening of October 5, 2024, is crucial for ensuring that voters are not influenced by premature predictions or poll results. By implementing such measures, the ECI aims to foster an environment where the electorate can make informed decisions free from external pressures.