Assembly Elections-2024
Exit Polls of J&K be published
after 6:00 PM on 5th October 2024: ECI
JAMMU, SEPTEMBER
30: As per the guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI)
through Press Note No. ECI/PN/132/2024, dated 31st August 2024, and under the
provisions of Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, all
media outlets (print, electronic, or digital), polling agencies, and
individuals are hereby informed that publication or broadcast of exit poll
results related to the ongoing elections in Jammu and Kashmir may be published
after 6:00 PM onwards on 5th October 2024.
This restriction is
mandated under Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Violation of this provision may lead to legal action, including fines and
imprisonment as prescribed by law.
The restriction
applies to all forms of media including newspapers, television channels, radio,
online news portals, social media platforms, and messaging services like
WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram etc. It also applies to
political parties, candidates, polling agencies, and any individuals engaged in
election-related activities.
The Chief Electoral
Office, Jammu and Kashmir, along with the District Election Officers, Returning
Officers and law enforcement agencies, will monitor compliance. Any violations
will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.
This measure aims
to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and ensure free and fair
election environment, and to ensure that voters make their decisions
uninfluenced by premature predictions or analysis of electoral outcomes.
All concerned
parties, including media houses, social media platforms, and polling agencies,
are urged to adhere to these instructions and refrain from publishing or
sharing any exit poll results before the stipulated time.