ECI Makes Pre-Certification Mandatory for Political Ads on TV, Social Media

The Election Commission of India has directed all political parties and candidates to obtain prior approval for campaign advertisements before releasing them on television, radio, or digital platforms in poll-bound states.

The directive applies to upcoming Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, along with bypolls in six other states.

Mandatory Clearance Before Publishing Ads

In a statement issued on Friday, the poll body said no political advertisement can be aired or published on electronic or internet-based platforms without certification from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC).

This includes a wide range of media — television, radio, audio-visual displays in public spaces, e-papers, bulk SMS and voice messages, as well as all forms of online and social media content.

The ECI clarified that the rule applies not only to recognised political parties but also to candidates, individuals, and any organisations involved in political messaging. All such entities must seek pre-certification from the relevant MCMC before releasing advertisements.

Focus on Digital and Social Media

The Commission has placed special emphasis on online platforms, stating that no political content should be published on websites or social media without prior approval. MCMCs have also been tasked with closely monitoring suspected cases of paid news and taking appropriate action.

Candidates will additionally be required to disclose details of their official social media accounts in their nomination affidavits, a move aimed at improving transparency and accountability in digital campaigning.

Spending Disclosure Rules

Citing provisions under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the ECI said political parties must submit a detailed account of campaign expenditure, including spending on internet and social media campaigns, within 75 days of the completion of elections.

Push to Curb Misinformation

The directive follows a high-level meeting held on March 19, 2026, involving Chief Electoral Officers, police and IT nodal officers from poll-bound states, along with representatives of social media platforms.

The meeting focused on ensuring strict enforcement of election guidelines and tackling the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and fake news during the election period.

With this move, the ECI aims to tighten oversight of political messaging across platforms and ensure a level playing field in an increasingly digital election landscape.