In view of the ensuing Thattanchavady Assembly bypoll in Puducherry, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday said conducting and publishing or publicising exit poll by means of print or electronic media or dissemination in any other manner, the result of any exit poll is prohibited on October 6 between 7 a.m. (beginning of bypoll) and 6.30 p.m.

The above order has been issued under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

In a statement, District Election Officer A. Kulothungan said polling for Thattanchavady bypoll would be held on October 6, between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Under the provisions of the aforesaid Act, displaying any election matter, including the results of any opinion poll or any other poll survey, in any electronic media, would be prohibited during the period of 48 hours ending with the hours fixed for the conclusion of the poll in the constituency.

Legal action would be taken against those found violating the provisions, he said.