Mumbai: The Maharashtra assembly elections are just two days away and today (Monday, November 18) is the last day for political campaigning. According to the model code of conduct, any kind of campaigning that could influence voters is not allowed during the 48-hour period until the end of voting. The period called “Quiet Period” starts today from 18.00. “There is a ban on political campaigns that influence voters during the silence period. The Electoral Commission will take strict action for violating the rules,” the EC said.

On Monday afternoon, the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer issued a statement saying, “During the 48 hours until the close of voting, any campaigning or public meetings, rallies or participation in such events that could influence voters is prohibited in accordance with with Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act 1951. Violation of these provisions is punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, a fine or both.”

“All cable networks, TV channels, radio stations and social media platforms must ensure that political ads have proper certification before airing them. Political advertisements without certification should not be aired under any circumstances. Any network or platform that broadcasts uncertified political ads, either directly or indirectly, will be held accountable for contempt of court and will take legal action,” the statement of the electoral director general states.

ECI guidelines on advertisements

In accordance with the guidelines in the Representation of the People Act, advertisements or electoral content published in the print media supporting or opposing any political party or candidate must state the publisher’s name and address. The ECI also directed compliance with Section 171H of the Indian Penal Code, which prohibits unauthorized election campaigning or expenditure incurred on campaigning, advertisements or publications without the express permission of the candidate.

During the silence period, political advertisements in print media must receive prior approval from the Pre-Certification Committee before being published in newspapers. Similarly, audiovisual media (television, cable networks, radio and social media) are strictly prohibited from airing political advertisements during this period.

Guidelines for the pre-certification of political advertisements were issued by ICE on 24 August 2023, covering both print media during the silence period and audiovisual media before the silence period. Violation of these pre-certification guidelines will lead to legal action, the Chief Electoral Officer’s statement added.

The statement warns that if a violation of the guidelines, including the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act 1995 (Regulation) or directives issued by the Supreme Court is found, the offending party must cease its actions immediately. The Electoral Commission is authorized to confiscate any equipment used for such violations. Failure to follow these instructions may result in dismissal of legal proceedings.