EC mandates pre-certification of print ads on poll day and eve for 2026 Assembly polls

The Election Commission of India has made pre-certification of all political advertisements in print media mandatory on the poll day and one day prior for the 2026 Assembly elections and upcoming bye-elections. The directive aims to ensure a fair and transparent campaign environment across poll-bound states, including Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

According to the Commission, no political party, candidate, organisation, or individual will be allowed to publish advertisements in print media during the specified period without prior approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) at the state or district level. Candidates and individuals must apply through district-level MCMCs, while recognised political parties headquartered in a state or Union Territory can approach the state-level MCMC for certification.

The Commission has also laid out specific timelines for pre-certification based on polling dates. Applicants must submit requests at least two days before the intended publication date to ensure timely approval. Additionally, MCMCs have been directed to maintain strict vigilance against suspected cases of paid news and take appropriate action to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.