Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Friday asserted that every action of the Election Commission is rooted in law and established rules, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal frameworks in all electoral processes. He also warned officials against the proliferation of false narratives on social media, urging them to engage proactively to curb the spread of misinformation.
EC's adherence to legal principles
Addressing a gathering of election officials, Kumar highlighted that the Commission's decisions and actions are consistently guided by constitutional provisions and statutory regulations. He stressed that any deviation from these principles could undermine the integrity of the electoral system. The CEC's remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of the Commission's role in ensuring free and fair elections.
Warning against misinformation
Kumar cautioned that false narratives on social media platforms pose a significant threat to democratic processes. He urged officials to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to counter misinformation, including timely clarification and engagement with the public. "We must not allow unverified claims to distort the electoral landscape," he said, according to a statement issued by the Commission.
Proactive engagement needed
The CEC called for a collaborative approach among election officials to detect and address misleading content. He emphasized the need for transparency and rapid response mechanisms to maintain public trust. The Commission has previously issued guidelines for social media monitoring during elections, but Kumar's remarks indicate a renewed focus on combating digital disinformation.
