ECI Tightens Rules for Media Entry on Poll Day

• Entry of media into polling stations strictly regulated
• Authority letters mandatory for poll day coverage
• Multi-level scrutiny by PIB, CEOs and ECI
• Photography inside voting compartment prohibited

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 18th April: The Election Commission of India has reiterated strict guidelines for media access to polling stations during the 2026 general and bye-elections, mandating a structured verification process and regulated entry on poll day.

The Commission said media personnel will be allowed inside polling stations only with valid Authority Letters issued after due scrutiny, in line with Rule 32 of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.

Multi-Level Verification Process
Requests from journalists are routed through designated authorities such as the Press Information Bureau and State Directorates of Information and Public Relations (DIPR).

For PIB-accredited journalists, the bureau conducts scrutiny before forwarding approved names to the ECI. For others, applications are vetted by state DIPRs and Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) before final approval.

Strict Authentication Norms
The ECI has mandated that Authority Letters must be properly authenticated by CEOs or District Election Officers, with no use of facsimile or rubber stamps to ensure credibility and prevent misuse.

Restrictions Inside Polling Booths
The Commission has clearly stated that photography or videography inside the voting compartment is strictly prohibited to maintain secrecy of voting.

Essential Service Status
Media personnel authorised for election coverage have been categorised under essential services and will be eligible for postal ballot voting at designated Postal Voting Centres (PVCs).

Focus on Free and Fair Elections
The Commission said the guidelines aim to ensure that only verified media personnel are granted access, thereby maintaining the integrity, security and orderly conduct of the electoral process.