Bhubaneswar: As the final phase (Phase IV) of the Odisha elections approaches, Nikunja Bihari Dhal, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) on Friday, issued a notice restricting the transmission of any election-related content via television or any other communication medium.
“Since last phase of the polls is scheduled on June 1, 2024, no election material can be displayed to the public by means of television, cinematograph or other similar apparatus during the silence period which commenced at 6 PM dtd. 30-05-2024”, read the notification of CEO.
Previously, the use of mobile phones and cameras was prohibited within the state’s polling stations. However, a video from inside a polling booth of phase III polls with an alleged EVM vandalism incident involving MLA Prasanata Jagadev began circulating on social media. Today the CEO has implemented stringent rules concerning the webcasting and broadcasting of the polling process. While the origin of the video is being investigated, it is presumed that the incident may have led to the CEO’s decision.
The Phase IV Elections in Odisha will take place across 42 Assembly constituencies under six Lok Sabha constituencies of the state. The election process, which commenced on May 28, will conclude on June 1 and the vote count is scheduled for June 4.
