Violation may attract up to 2 years’ jail; Kamrup (Metro) enforces Section 163 BNSS restrictions
Guwahati: The Election Commission of India has barred the release and circulation of exit polls from 7 am on polling day until 6:30 pm, covering all Assembly elections scheduled across states this month.
The poll panel cautioned that any violation of Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, could lead to imprisonment of up to two years, a fine, or both.
Assam is set to vote on April 9 alongside Kerala and Puducherry, while Tamil Nadu will go to polls on April 23. West Bengal will hold voting in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
In line with election norms, Assam will enter a 48-hour “silence period” from 5 pm on April 7. During this phase, public campaigning, including rallies, meetings, and political events, is strictly prohibited, although limited door-to-door contact with voters is permitted.
To ensure compliance and maintain order, the Kamrup (Metropolitan) district administration has imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
District Magistrate and Election Officer Swapneel Paul said gatherings of five or more people will not be allowed, except near polling booths where voters need access to cast their ballots. Authorities said the measures are aimed at ensuring a peaceful, fair, and orderly voting process across the state.
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