The Aryavarth Express:
Guwahati, April 7: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the enforcement of the mandatory 48-hour “silence period” ahead of the 2026 Assam Legislative Assembly elections, beginning at 5:00 PM on April 7.
The restriction, mandated under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, comes into effect 48 hours prior to the conclusion of polling and aims to ensure free and fair elections across all constituencies.
During this period, all forms of election campaigning are strictly prohibited. This includes public meetings, rallies, processions, and any other campaign-related activities. The ECI has also banned the dissemination of election-related content through electronic and social media platforms. Activities such as canvassing via bulk SMS, phone calls, or online outreach are not permitted.
Additionally, political workers and party functionaries brought in from outside constituencies, who are not registered voters in those areas, have been directed to leave once campaigning ends. District authorities and police have been tasked with enforcing compliance.
The Commission further clarified that under Section 126(1)(b), the broadcast or display of election-related material—including opinion polls and survey results—on television or similar electronic media is strictly barred during the silence period.
Anurag Goel, Chief Electoral Officer of Assam, urged all candidates, political parties, and media organisations to strictly adhere to these guidelines. He warned that any violations would invite penal action under the law.
Meanwhile, Union Minister J. P. Nadda expressed confidence in his party’s prospects, stating that there is a strong atmosphere in favour of the BJP-led NDA in the state. Speaking in Tinsukia, he credited the development work carried out under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and its implementation by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Polling for the Assam Assembly elections will be held in a single phase on April 9, with counting of votes scheduled for May 4.
