EC examining BJP manifesto telecast in election areas

The Election Commission is examining the issue of television channels showing the release of BJP's election manifesto and its contents on a day when polling in the first phase of Lok Sabha elections took place today.
"The matter is being examined legally in depth," EC sources said here.
They said release of the manifesto on a polling day was not an issue before the Commission but its telecast in regions where election took place is being examined.
Five constituencies in Assam and one in Tripura went to polls today.
Chief Election Commissioner V S Sampath has made it clear that there is no bar on a party releasing its manifesto on a poll day but it cannot be publicised or telecast in areas where elections are being held.

Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act says "telecast of the manifesto during the 48-hour period is thus likely to be a violation of 126 (1)(b)".

The section prohibits public meetings during the period of 48 hours ending with the hour fixed for conclusion of the poll.
Under this provision, no person shall address any public meeting or hold a procession in connection with an election or display to the public any election matter "by means of cinematography, television or other similar apparatus".
Asked about the issue, Election Commissioner H S Bramha today said the telecast of news showing release of the manifesto should have been avoided in the six constituencies today.

Asked whether EC would serve notice on TV news channels in this regard, he said he cannot make an off-the-cuff remark. "We have experts...Can't say off hand. You will have to wait," he said.