An FIR has been registered against several online news platforms for publishing opinion polls related to the Ludhiana West Assembly by-election, in violation of election regulations. The bypoll is scheduled to take place on June 19.
The action was taken under the Representation of the People Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) following a complaint filed by the Returning Officer. The publications were made during the 48-hour restricted period before polling — a time when opinion polls are strictly prohibited under Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines to ensure free and fair elections.
The news channels named in the FIR include Turn Times, Jan Hitaishi, The City Headlines, and E News Punjab. All of them reportedly published opinion polls during the blackout period, allegedly attempting to influence voter sentiment and disrupt the electoral process.
The FIR was registered by the Cyber Crime Police Station, Ludhiana, after receiving multiple complaints against the channels. Authorities have warned that such violations will be dealt with strictly and have reiterated the importance of following electoral guidelines.
The Election Commission’s rules clearly prohibit the broadcast or publication of any opinion poll or exit poll in electronic media, including online platforms, 48 hours prior to the end of polling, to prevent any undue influence on voters.
The case is currently under investigation, and further action will be taken based on findings.
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