JAMMU, SEPT 30: In accordance with the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) Press Note No. ECI/PN/132/2024, dated August 31, 2024, and under Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, it is hereby notified that the publication or broadcast of exit poll results for the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir elections is prohibited until after 6:00 p.m. on October 5, 2024.
This restriction, mandated under Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, carries legal consequences for violations, which may include 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 such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and others. It also extends to political parties, candidates, polling agencies, and any individuals involved in election-related activities.
The Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir, along with District Election Officers, Returning Officers, and law enforcement agencies, will be monitoring compliance. Any violations will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.
This measure is intended to protect the integrity of the electoral process and ensure a free and fair election environment, ensuring 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.
