Lok Sabha elections: Restrict opinion polls, EC tells Centre

The government, however, seem to be in no hurry to take a call on the issue. It has referred the matter to the Law Commission which is already examining the broader issue of electoral reforms.

”The Law Commission is already examining the issue of electoral reforms. Opinion polls are part of larger issue of electoral reforms. Therefore, the matter has been referred to it,” a senior government functionary to PTI.

Existing law allows EC to ban opinion polls just 48 hours prior to voting.

The poll panel has proposed that there should be prohibition on publication and broadcast of the results of opinion polls starting from the date of notification of elections till the completion of the last phase of polls to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

A ban on opinion polls could require amendment to the Representation of the People Act.