EC bans using opinion poll results two days before election

Stating the guidelines relating to opinion poll and exit poll for Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Delhi, he said organisations concerned and agencies would be free to conduct exit polls.

But the result of any such exit poll should not be published, publicised or disseminated in any media between 0700 hrs and 1700 hrs on November 25, he said.

The commission said the sample size of the electorate covered by such polls and geographic spread of survey must be indicated while publishing, publicisingand disseminating the result of the polls. Details of methodology followed, likely percentage of errors, professional background and experience of the organisation or organisations and the key professionals involved in the conduct and analysis of the poll must invariably be given, it said.

The commission also announced prohibition on holding of public meetings during the 48 hours period ending with the close of poll saying no person shall convene, hold, attend, join or address any public meeting or procession in connection with election.

It said that nobody should display to the public any election matter by means of cinematography, television or other similar apparatus during this period. No person should propagate any election matter8217; to the public by holding or by arranging the holding of any musical concert or any theatrical performance or any other entertainment or amusement with a view to attracting the members of the public thereto in any polling area, it said.

Any person who contravenes theseprovisions of the Representation of the People Act shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with fine or both, the commission said.