Pre-Certification Mandatory for Political Advertisements: ECI

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has mandated pre-certification of political advertisements by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC). The ECI update eyes at upcoming elections to the Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with bye-elections in six states. The election dates were announced on 15th March, 2026. 

Pre-Certification for Political Advertisement 

As per the ECI directive, all political advertisements across electronic media, including television, radio, audio-visual displays in public places, e-papers, bulk SMS, voice messages, and social media, must receive prior approval from the MCMC before publication. This applies to registered political parties, organizations, associations, candidates, and individuals. 

Individual/independent candidates may apply to District-level MCMC. Political parties headquartered in a State or Union Territory must apply to the State-level MCMC. Appeals against decisions can be made to an Appellate Committee headed by the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) at the state level. 

Monitoring and Compliance Measures 

The Commission has directed that no political advertisement should be released on internet-based platforms, including social media, without prior certification. MCMCs are also tasked with monitoring suspected cases of paid news and taking appropriate action. 

Candidates are also required to provide details of their authentic social media accounts in their affidavit at the time of filing nominations. 

Reporting of Campaign Expenditure 

The Commission reminded that Section 77(1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 requires political parties to submit a statement of campaign expenditure, including spending on internet and social media, within 75 days of the completion of elections. This includes payments to internet companies, advertising costs, content development, and operational expenses for maintaining social media accounts. 

Coordination Meeting Held 

The ECI informed about a meeting held on 19th March, 2026, involving Chief Electoral Officers, State Police and IT nodal officers, and representatives of social media platforms. The discussion pertained to enforcement of the aforementioned measures of political advertisement to ensure timely action against misinformation, disinformation, and fake news during elections.