ECI Mandates Pre-Certification for All Political Advertisements on Social Media Platforms
In an order issued on October 9, the ECI mandated that every registered national and state political party, as well as contesting candidates, must seek approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMCs) before publishing or broadcasting any political advertisements.
New Delhi, October 15: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed all political parties and candidates contesting the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections and bye-elections across six states and the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir to obtain pre-certification for all advertisements released on electronic and social media platforms.
In an order issued on October 9, the ECI mandated that every registered national and state political party, as well as individual candidates, must seek approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMCs) before publishing or broadcasting any political advertisements. The MCMCs, constituted at both district and state levels, will vet content for compliance with the commission’s guidelines.
“No political advertisements shall be released on any internet-based media or social networking platforms without prior certification from the respective MCMC,” the commission emphasized. It has also instructed the committees to maintain a strict vigil on paid news and take appropriate action against violators.
Acknowledging the growing influence of social media in election campaigns, the ECI has further directed that all contesting candidates must declare their official social media accounts at the time of filing nominations to ensure transparency and accountability.
Under Section 77(1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, political parties are also required to submit detailed statements of expenditure related to digital campaigning within 75 days of the completion of the elections. This includes payments made to internet platforms, website operators, content developers, and expenses incurred in managing social media handles.
The move is aimed at tightening the regulatory framework around digital campaigning, online political advertising, and misinformation, ensuring a level playing field during the election process.
