Assembly Elections 2026: Exit Poll Ban in Force from April 9 to April 29, EC Issues Strict Warning

As multiple states head into voting, the Election Commission of India has enforced a strict ban on exit polls, drawing a clear line to ensure fair elections.

Exit polls completely barred during voting window

The Commission has prohibited the conduct, publication, or broadcast of exit polls from 7 am on April 9 until 6:30 pm on April 29. This covers the entire voting period across five key Assembly elections.

The rule is backed by Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Violating it is a serious offence and may lead to up to two years in jail, a fine, or both.

Phased polling keeps ban active longer

The extended restriction comes as voting is spread across different dates:

• Kerala, Assam and Puducherry vote on April 9
• Tamil Nadu goes to polls on April 23
• West Bengal votes in two phases on April 23 and April 29

Since polling stretches over multiple dates, the exit poll ban remains active until the final vote is cast on April 29.

What the 48-hour ‘silence period’ means

Alongside the exit poll ban, the Commission has highlighted the mandatory 48-hour silence period before polling ends in each constituency.

• In Kerala and Puducherry, it begins at 6 pm on Tuesday
• In Assam, it starts earlier at 5 pm

During this time, public campaigning must stop. Rallies, speeches, and mass outreach are not allowed. Only limited door-to-door contact by candidates or small teams is permitted.

Digital challenge remains

While the rules are firm, enforcing them online continues to be a challenge. Social media platforms and messaging apps can spread content rapidly, often bypassing traditional monitoring systems.

Polling is generally scheduled between 7 am and 6 pm, though timings may vary depending on local conditions and security needs.

With these measures, the Commission aims to ensure a fair and influence-free voting environment as the Assembly Elections 2026 unfold.