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Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Fake messages being dispelled on WhatsApp? ECI gives stern warning

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Once the polls are announced, the model code of conduct (MCC) will be enforced, regulating the conduct of political parties and candidates.

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Edited By: Mayank Kasyap
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ANI

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken proactive measures to address a circulating fake WhatsApp message purportedly detailing the schedule for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Through its official social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the ECI debunked the misinformation, affirming that no official dates have been finalized as of yet.

In a statement posted on X, the ECI emphasized, "A fake message is being shared on WhatsApp regarding the schedule for #LokSabhaElections2024 #FactCheck: The message is #Fake. No dates have been announced so far by #ECI. Election Schedule is announced by the Commission through a press conference."

Anticipated announcement by ECI

According to reports from IANS, the Election Commission of India is likely to unveil the schedule for the forthcoming parliamentary elections on March 13-14. Once announced, the model code of conduct (MCC) will be enforced, regulating the conduct of political parties and candidates.

The ECI has been actively assessing the electoral preparedness across various states. Teams from the Commission have conducted meetings with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) in different states, evaluating the logistical arrangements and overall readiness for the electoral process. Presently, ECI officials are in Tamil Nadu, overseeing election-related arrangements and logistics.

Scheduled visits and assessment

In the upcoming week, the ECI is scheduled to visit Uttar Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. Notably, the full Commission's visit to Jammu and Kashmir on March 11-12 aims to evaluate the election preparedness and security landscape in the region. Jammu and Kashmir marks the final leg of the ECI's state visits, where it will assess the ground realities and issue necessary directives. It is anticipated that the Commission will announce the election schedule shortly after its return from Jammu and Kashmir.

Historical context and electoral roll publication

Reflecting on previous election cycles, the schedule for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections was announced on March 10, while the dates for the nine-phase 2014 parliamentary polls were disclosed on March 5. With an estimated 97 crore eligible voters, the upcoming Lok Sabha elections hold significant national importance.

In early February, electoral rolls were published across all states and union territories following an extensive Special Summary Revision 2024. Notably, states such as Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh are set to conduct simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls.

The Election Commission of India's swift response to misinformation underscores its commitment to ensuring the integrity and transparency of the electoral process. As anticipation mounts for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, the ECI remains steadfast in its efforts to uphold democratic principles and facilitate free and fair elections.

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