Thoothukudi, April 8 (NationPress) With the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections approaching, Vishu Mahajan, the District Collector and Election Officer of Thoothukudi, has released comprehensive guidelines mandating that all political advertisements receive pre-certification. This initiative is part of the rigorous implementation of the Election Commission's rules.

An official statement revealed that a Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) has been formed in the district to evaluate and approve all advertisements linked to the elections, issued by political entities and candidates.

This measure aims to promote transparency, curb misinformation, and maintain fairness during the election campaign.

The Collector specified that all political advertisements on electronic and digital platforms must gain approval from the MCMC prior to publication or airing.

This requirement encompasses ads on television, cable channels, FM radio, cinema halls, digital displays, bulk SMS services, and robocalls. Additionally, it applies to social media sites like Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and various online promotional efforts.

According to the established rules, recognized political parties must submit their advertisement clearance applications at least three days in advance, while independent candidates and unrecognized groups are required to apply a week ahead of their planned release. However, ads published in newspapers during standard campaign periods do not need pre-certification, although their costs will be included in the candidates’ election expense accounts.

It is important to note that stricter guidelines will be enforced as the final campaigning phase approaches.

For advertisements set to be published in newspapers on April 22 and April 23—just 48 hours before polling—prior approval from the MCMC is essential, and requests must be submitted a minimum of 48 hours ahead of time.

Applicants are required to submit their requests at the MCMC office located on the ground floor of the Thoothukudi District Collectorate. Necessary documentation includes a completed application form, a sample of the advertisement (in CD, pen drive, or printed format), the advertisement script, a cost estimate, and a declaration affirming that the content complies with all regulations and does not violate copyright laws.

The Collector warned that any advertisements published without prior approval, or any dissemination of defamatory content on social media, will be considered a violation of election regulations. Such violations will lead to strict legal consequences, and the associated expenses will be added to the candidate’s official election account.

Political parties and candidates are encouraged to fully comply with these guidelines and work in tandem with the district administration to facilitate free and fair elections.