Ranchi admin to keep an eye on social media during poll season

Sharing or posting anything on social media which violates the Election Commission’s model code of conduct (MCC) could land people in trouble. Ranchi sub-divisional officer (SDO) Garima Singh said it was often seen that many WhatsApp messages were sent for promotion in favour of a particular candidate.

“Sending of such messages falls under paid news category, which is a violation of MCC,” Singh said and she warned all WhatsApp group administrators to stop spreading such messages.

“If anyone is found sending such messages, group administrators may face action under Representation of the People’s Act,” Singh said, adding, the same applies for Facebook and other social media platforms.

She said a social media cell has been set up with the district administration to track the activities on social media during parliamentary elections.

“We will keep track of messages such as hate speech, paid news and rumour mongering on social media platforms and take action accordingly,” she said.

The chief electoral office (CEO) has also made extensive arrangements to keep tab on social media activities by the political parties, candidates, bureaucrats and individuals. Special cells at the CEO office in Ranchi and 24 districts have been set up.

Election commission of India (ECI) has issued clear guidelines with regards to use of social media by political parties and candidates. Under the guidelines, candidates are required to furnish details of his/her social media account at the time of filling nominations. All political advertisement on social media will also require pre- certification from Media Certification & Monitoring Committees.

Voters to get voting appeal message on mobile on polling day

Ranchi deputy commissioner (DC) Rai Mahimapat Ray on Wednesday held a meeting with mobile service providers and representatives of banks. Ray said, “Ranchi will go to polls on May 6. The voters will receive messages on their mobile every half an hour on the day. The message will request them to cast their votes. The mobile service providers have been instructed in this regard,” Ray said.

The deputy commissioner directed the representatives of banks to provide information on transaction of over Rs 10 lakh so that required actions could be taken. He also instructed the bank officials to display banners and posters related to model code of conduct at bank counters, ATMs and other banking centres.

First Published: Mar 14, 2019 11:46 IST