New Delhi, April 6 -- The Election Commission of India has mandated pre-certification of political advertisements in print media during the pre-poll period and on polling day for the 2026 Assembly elections and bye-elections.

According to a press release, the ECI had earlier announced the schedule for General Elections to the Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with bye-elections in six states, on March 15, 2026. In a move aimed at ensuring a level playing field and maintaining transparency in election campaigning, strict guidelines have been issued regarding political advertisements in print media.

The Commission stated that no political party, candidate, organisation, or individual s...