Strict Action to be Taken Against Printing of Campaign Material Contrary to Election Commission Rules: District Electoral Officer Vikram Singh

Faridabad, 18 May, 2024:District Electoral Officer and Deputy Commissioner Vikram Singh stated that strict action will be taken against the printing of campaign material contrary to the rules of the Election Commission. He issued strict directives to printing press owners in the district, stating that there is a provision for a six-month penalty and cancellation of the printing press license for violations of the rules.

It is noteworthy that in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, District Electoral Officer Vikram Singh has issued directives regarding the printing and publication of election pamphlets, posters, and related material to all registered printing presses in the district. Notices have been issued to all registered printers and publishers. It has been stated that the printing and publication of election pamphlets, posters, etc., will be regulated under Section 127-E of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

The District Electoral Officer has directed printing press owners not to publish any election campaign material without investigation, verification, and compliance with the rules. Printing pamphlets and posters related to elections without the name of the printer and publisher constitutes a violation of Section 127-E of the Representation of the People Act, and action will be taken against such printers under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code. Provision has been made for a penalty of six months and cancellation of the printing press license for such offenses. It has been stated that the name of the printer and publisher must be printed on all election-related materials.

The District Electoral Officer stated that the Election Commission of India has fixed the expenditure limit for Lok Sabha candidates. Therefore, it is necessary to keep a complete account of the expenditure on their pamphlets and posters as well. It has been informed that after printing such posters and pamphlets, a copy must be sent to the District Magistrate, and it must be informed to the Chief Electoral Officer at the state level, stating how many posters or pamphlets related to the election were printed by a particular individual and also provide details of their expenditure. It has been stated that copying from copy is also included in this category. The term “election pamphlet/poster” refers to all documents used for propaganda, containing information related to any political party or candidate contesting in the Lok Sabha elections.