State Chief Electoral Officer, Nalini Netto, has reminded the electronic media of the relevant section of the Representation of the People Act that prohibits the display of election matter to the public by means of cinematograph, television, or any other similar apparatus during the 48 hours preceding the close of polls.
She issued this reminder through a circular to the managing directors of nine Malayalam television channels on Tuesday in the context of the byelections in Kannur, Ernakulam and Alappuzha Assembly constituencies due to take place on November 7.
It had been noticed during the past general elections that the electronic media, especially the visual media in the State, had continued to telecast/broadcast election-related programmes during the 48 hours preceding the close of the polls, in utter disregard of election laws and Election Commission of India instructions, the reminder said.
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Ms. Netto said any violation of Section 126 of the People’s Representation Act 1951 noticed on the part of individuals or the media would be viewed seriously and legal action taken against them.
She said there should be no telecast/broadcast of programmes such as debates, interviews, speeches and clippings of campaign by political parties and functionaries during the period from 5 p.m. on November 5 and 5 p.m. on November 7.
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