Exit polls banned from Nov 13 to 20

The Election Commission of India has banned the publication of exit polls across print, electronic, and social media platforms from 7 am on November 13 to 6 pm on November 20. The ban aims to prevent any potential influence on voters during the ongoing elections.

The decision comes as part of efforts to ensure a free and fair voting process. Exit polls, which predict election outcomes, are often released as voting takes place, potentially swaying voter behavior in the remaining phases of elections. By implementing this ban, the Election Commission seeks to maintain the integrity of the election process and avoid any undue impact on voters’ decisions.

The restriction applies to all forms of media, including digital platforms, to ensure that voters are not influenced by premature predictions or results before the polls close. It is a standard measure taken during elections to promote fairness and transparency.

Voters will now be able to cast their votes without external pressures, knowing that no exit polls will be published during the specified period. The ban will be enforced until the final phase of voting concludes on November 20. Afterward, exit polls may be released as the official counting begins.

This step reflects the Election Commission’s commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that election outcomes are determined solely by voters’ choices.