Poll panel issues directive on bulk SMS

The Election Commission has issued a directive banning bulk SMS by political parties for 48 hours prior to the conclusion of any future polls.

The Election Commission has issued a directive banning bulk SMS by political parties for 48 hours prior to the conclusion of any future polls.

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The spokesman for the office of chief electoral officer, Haryana, said, "Objectionable SMSes, which violate the provisions of election law, model code of conduct and commission's directions or instructions issued in this behalf, are strictly prohibited.

Police should advertise special mobile numbers on which the receiver of such SMS can forward the said SMS, along with the contact details of the sender of objectionable SMS."

He said that the police should initiate appropriate inquiry to trace the original sender of such SMS and take appropriate action under the relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code, the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, relevant instructions and directions and any other applicable laws.

He added that bulk SMS transmitted during the campaign period to further electoral prospects of any candidate, as and when noticed by the returning officer or district election officer, must be brought to the notice of the chief electoral officer.

Where the bulk SMS is sent by the political party and does not carry the name of the candidate, the expenditure will be treated as general party propaganda and would not be apportioned to any candidate, he said.