Guwahati, 06 April (HS): The Election Commission of India has announced that the mandatory Silent Period for the ongoing Assam Legislative Assembly Elections, 2026, will commence from 5:00 PM on April 7, 48 hours prior to the close of polling, in accordance with Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

During this period, all forms of election campaigning will be strictly prohibited across all Legislative Assembly Constituencies in the state. This includes public meetings, rallies, processions and any other campaign-related activities. The dissemination of election-related content through electronic and social media platforms will also be barred.

The Commission has further prohibited canvassing of votes through any means, including bulk SMS, phone calls and social media outreach. Any activity aimed at influencing voters during this period will be considered a violation of the law.

Additionally, political functionaries and party workers who are not registered voters of a constituency and have been brought from outside must leave the respective constituencies immediately after the campaign period ends. The district and police administrations have been directed to ensure strict compliance to maintain a free and fair electoral environment.

The guidelines also restrict the display of election-related content, including opinion polls and survey results, on electronic media such as television and other similar platforms during the 48-hour period leading up to the conclusion of polling.

Chief Electoral Officer of Assam, Anurag Goel, has urged all candidates, political parties, and media organizations to strictly adhere to the directives. He warned that any violation of these provisions would invite penal action under the relevant sections of law.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash