ECI enforces silence period

New Delhi, Oct 26: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reiterated strict enforcement of the silence period and restrictions on exit polls ahead of the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections and bye-elections scheduled for November 6 and 11, 2025.

According to the ECI, Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, prohibits the display of any election-related matter on television, radio, or similar media during the 48 hours before the conclusion of polling in a constituency.

This “silence period” is intended to provide voters with a calm environment to make informed decisions, free from campaign influence.

The Commission has directed all television and radio channels, as well as cable networks, to ensure that no content broadcast during this period promotes or prejudices the prospects of any political party or candidate.

This restriction extends to views or appeals made by panellists and participants in televised discussions, and also includes the display of opinion polls.

In a separate notification issued under Section 126A of the Act, the ECI has prohibited the conduct and publication of exit polls between 7 am on November 6 and 6:30 pm on November 11, covering the entire polling period for both phases of the Bihar elections.