ECI Orders Parties to Remove Fake Content Within 3 Hours During Polls

NEW DELHI, April 19, 2026 — The :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} has directed political parties, candidates, and stakeholders to remove unlawful or misleading social media content within three hours of detection during the ongoing 2026 assembly elections, reinforcing strict compliance with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and information technology regulations.

Three-Hour Deadline for Content Removal

The poll body reiterated that any content deemed to violate election norms, spread false narratives, or disrupt law and order must be taken down within three hours of being reported or identified. The directive applies to all political actors participating in elections across Assam, Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry.

According to the Commission, this measure is aimed at curbing the rapid spread of misinformation and ensuring a level playing field during the election period. The rule covers both conventional digital content and AI-generated or synthetic campaign material.

State-level IT Nodal Officers, notified under the Information Technology Act, have been tasked with monitoring online platforms and ensuring swift compliance with takedown requirements.

Focus on MCC Violations and Law and Order Risks

The Commission specified that content categorized as violations of the Model Code of Conduct, including posts that may incite unrest or mislead voters, will be subject to immediate action. Authorities are actively tracking such material across digital platforms in real time.

The guidelines emphasize that political messaging must not distort facts or create confusion among voters, particularly during sensitive phases of the election process. Any delay in removing flagged content could invite regulatory action.

Officials noted that the monitoring mechanism is designed to prevent escalation of tensions and maintain public order during the elections.

Rules for AI-Generated Campaign Content

The Commission has also issued clear instructions regarding synthetic or AI-generated campaign material. Such content must be explicitly labeled to ensure transparency and avoid misleading voters.

Additionally, all campaign-related digital content must adhere to the mandatory 48-hour silence period before polling. During this period, political parties and candidates are prohibited from engaging in active campaigning, including through online platforms.

The ECI stated that these measures are critical in addressing emerging challenges posed by advanced technologies in election campaigns.

Use of C-Vigil and ECINET for Reporting

Citizens, political parties, and candidates have been encouraged to report violations through the C-Vigil module available on the ECINET platform. The system allows real-time reporting of MCC violations, enabling authorities to take prompt action.

The Commission highlighted that public participation is essential in ensuring compliance with election norms, particularly in monitoring digital content that may not be immediately detected by official systems.

Reports submitted through C-Vigil are expected to trigger swift verification and enforcement measures by designated officials.

Election Timeline and Enforcement Scope

The Model Code of Conduct has been in force since March 15, following the announcement of the election schedule for the five states and union territory. Voting for Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry was conducted on April 9.

Tamil Nadu is scheduled to go to polls on April 23, while West Bengal will hold voting in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Counting of votes is expected to take place after the completion of polling across all regions.

The Commission stated that strict enforcement of digital content regulations will continue throughout the election cycle to ensure free and fair polls. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining transparency, preventing misinformation, and upholding electoral integrity in an increasingly digital campaign environment.