Haryana's Electoral Officer Enforces Strict Media Compliance Ahead of Assembly Election

Haryana Chief Electoral Officer, Pankaj Agarwal, has announced rigorous monitoring of social media in the lead-up to the October 1 assembly elections. Expenses for social media adverts will be recorded in candidates' accounts. A Media Certification & Monitoring committee approval is required for all media ads, aiming to maintain a fair and impartial election environment.

Haryana Chief Electoral Officer Pankaj Agarwal announced stringent monitoring of social media platforms ahead of the state's October 1 assembly election.

Agarwal emphasized that the expenses for social media ads would be accounted for in the candidates' election expenses. He elaborated that several teams have been established to keep a close watch on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp groups, and X.

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) will apply universally, including newspapers, television, radio, and social media. All media must remain impartial and avoid broadcasting or publishing content that favors any religion, caste, or community. Any advertisement must receive prior approval from the Media Certification & Monitoring Committee.

He further mentioned that political events such as rallies or roadshows require district administration approval, and there are restrictions on loudspeaker use between 10 pm and 6 am. Additionally, no political gatherings are allowed in government rest houses while the MCC is in effect.

(With inputs from agencies.)