'Disclose social media details on nomination paper'; Election Commission's suggestion to candidates

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Election Commission asked candidates contesting the assembly polls to disclose their official social media account details in the affidavit in their nomination papers. Advertisements on social media should also be notified in advance.

The requirement that political parties, organisations, associations or candidates should obtain prior certification from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee before publishing advertisements on electronic media (TV, radio, AV displays in public places, e-papers, bulk SMS/voice messages) also applies to social media advertisements.

Political parties must submit to the Commission details of the amount spent on internet campaigning, including websites, within 75 days of the end of the election. The figures must also include the amount paid to internet companies and websites for advertising, the cost of producing campaign-related content, and the operating costs of managing social media accounts.

Political parties or candidates should not place political advertisements on internet-based media, including social media websites, without prior certification from MCMC. MCMC has been directed to be strictly vigilant and take appropriate action in cases of paid news.