The District Election Officer, Ronald Rose, has instructed political parties and leaders to get permission from the Media Certification & Monitoring Committee (MCMC) before placing ads on social media. This rule applies to various platforms like electronic media, local cable, FM radio, online media, bulk SMS, video messages, cinema ads, and pamphlet printing. They need approval from the Election Commission of India.
The MCMC is located at the Chief Public Relations Officer’s office in the GHMC head office. Leaders must submit their applications to the MCMC at least 24 hours before airing any ads. The DEO specified requirements for pamphlets, including the publisher’s name, address, and election code of conduct. Candidates cannot use pamphlets to campaign against opponents based on caste, ongoing court cases, or personal matters.
Failure to follow these rules could lead to prosecution under Section 127A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which requires the publisher’s name on all printed materials.
