Chief Election Commissioner On Combating Challenge Of '4Ms' In Polls

The use of money, muscle, misinformation and violation of model code of conduct are among the four big challenges or '4Ms' before the poll body, said the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, underscoring that the poll body will "join the issue" to provide the correct picture to voters. 

The commission will soon launch a "Myth vs Reality" project to clear the air around fake news being spread on social media, said the top poll officer during a press conference to announce the schedule for elections.

"Misinformation troubles us a lot during elections. We are conscious of two facts -- that social media helps us in our outreach programmes and there is freedom to criticise anybody in a democracy. But one cannot be allowed to create fake news, which is not based on facts because it can disturb public order," he said.

The top poll officer said that under sections 69 and 79 (3) of the IT Act, authorities in each state are empowered to ask to take down fake social media posts.

"Authorised officials have been appointed in all states or are being appointed. In each district, we have done thorough training to deal with this kind of menace. Our entire machinery will now react to whatever is coming by (using) facts. We will join the issue instead of being in the background," Mr Kumar said.

Polling for the 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases, starting with 102 in the first phase on April 19. The votes will be counted on June 4.

"Tackling misinformation in today's digital age is complex. We have put certain measures in place to ensure misinformation is nipped in the bud. We will be proactive in debunking fake news. Originators of fake news will be dealt with severely as per extant laws," Mr Kumar further said.

"Remember, 'Verify Before You Amplify' is the mantra to combat fake news. Let us rely on authoritative sources to ensure accurate information prevails. Stay vigilant and help us maintain the integrity of the electoral process," he added. 

According to the guidelines, all parties and candidates shall avoid scrupulously all activities which are "corrupt practices" and offences under the election law, such as bribing of voters, intimidation of voters, impersonation of voters, canvassing within 100 meters of polling stations, holding public meetings during the period of 48 hours ending with the hour fixed for the close of the poll, and the transport and conveyance of voters to and from polling station.

According to the Model Code of Conduct, Ministers shall not combine their official visit with electioneering work and shall not also make use of official machinery or personnel during the electioneering work. Also Government transport including official aircraft, vehicles, machinery and personnel shall not be used for furtherance of the interest of the party in power.

(With PTI inputs)