Mumbai

The Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer’s office has issued a warning that strict action will be taken against any violations during the silence period ahead of the November 20 elections. The silence period starts at 6 p.m. on Monday and lasts until the voting ends, prohibiting any campaigning, rallies, or events that could influence voters.

Under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, violations during this period can lead to imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both. The Election Commission (ECI) has also set guidelines for election-related advertisements, requiring the publisher’s name and address to be included in print media. Any political advertisements must get prior approval from the Pre-Certification Committee before being published.

Television, radio, cable networks, and social media are barred from airing political ads during the silence period. Violating these rules will result in legal action. Additionally, the ECI has ordered that all political advertisements be certified before broadcast, and any unapproved content will lead to severe consequences, including confiscation of equipment and contempt of court charges. The office emphasized that failure to comply will result in strict penalties.