In a significant move ahead of the Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has directed candidates to provide details of their social media accounts while filing nomination papers.
As per the new guidelines, candidates must submit affidavits listing all their official social media handles, including information on platforms used and verified accounts. The step aims to enhance transparency and curb the spread of misinformation during the election period.
The Commission has also made it mandatory for political advertisements across digital and electronic platforms, including social media, to receive prior approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC). Any violation of these norms could attract action under election rules.
The move comes as part of stricter monitoring measures by the EC to ensure free and fair elections, particularly with the growing influence of digital campaigning in Tamil Nadu and other poll-bound states.