Exit Poll 2026 Date: EC Enforces Ban Till April 29 For Five-State Assembly Elections

The Election Commission of India (EC) has imposed a ban on exit polls for the upcoming assembly elections in five states, prohibiting both the conduct and publication of such surveys from 7 am on April 9 to 6:30 pm on April 29. The restriction applies across all media platforms, including television, digital and social media.

The Commission clarified that any violation during this period will be treated as a breach of Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Those found violating the rules could face imprisonment of up to two years, or a fine, or both under the law.

Why Exit Polls Are Banned

The EC said the restriction is aimed at ensuring that voters are not influenced by projected outcomes while polling is still underway in different states. Exit polls, which are conducted after voters cast their ballots, can shape public perception and potentially affect voter behaviour in later phases of elections. The ban is intended to maintain fairness and allow voters to make independent decisions.

Five-State Election Schedule

Polling for the assembly elections will take place in multiple phases across the five states. Voting in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry is scheduled on April 9. Tamil Nadu will go to polls on April 23, while West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and April 29. The ban on exit polls will remain in effect until voting concludes in the final phase.

Alongside this, the Commission has also enforced the mandatory 48-hour silence period before polling begins in each state. In Kerala and Puducherry, the silence period started at 6 pm on April 7, while in Assam it began at 5 pm the same day. During this period, all public campaigning must stop, and electronic media platforms, including television and online channels, are not allowed to broadcast election-related content or opinion polls under Section 126(1)(b) of the law.

However, limited door-to-door campaigning by candidates and party workers is still permitted once the silence period comes into effect. The Election Commission has also noted that enforcing these rules has become more challenging in the digital age, where information spreads rapidly through social media and messaging platforms.

Despite these challenges, the EC has warned that strict action will be taken against any violations, particularly those involving the dissemination of exit poll data before the official deadline. Votes for all five states will be counted on May 4, when the final results will be announced. Until then, the restrictions are aimed at preserving the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring a level playing field for all participants.