Fair Elections in Bihar: Stricter Media and Conduct Monitoring

Ahead of Bihar elections, the Election Commission enforces strict advertisement regulations and enhances vigilance against poll violations. With pre-certification requirements for ads and rapid complaint response mechanisms, the EC aims to ensure a fair campaign environment.

In an effort to uphold electoral integrity, the Election Commission of India has instituted stringent measures on political advertising in print media ahead of polling days in Bihar. No political entity is permitted to publish advertisements without prior approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) at the State or District level.

To comply with these regulations, political advertisers must submit applications for pre-certification at least two days prior to publication. MCMCs across the State and district levels have been mobilized to expedite this process, ensuring a smooth and timely approval system is in place.

The EC has also intensified its enforcement capabilities by deploying 824 flying squads to oversee adherence to the Model Code of Conduct. With mechanisms such as the "C-Vigil App" and a dedicated hotline, complaints are being resolved efficiently, with a remarkable 94% resolved within 100 minutes. Enforcement actions have led to significant seizures, highlighting the EC’s commitment to fair elections.