Govt to restrict exit polls during polling

NEW DELHI: In a move that is likely to raise the hackles of the media, the Government on Wednesday decided to restrict telecast and publication of exit polls during elections till the conclusion of the final phase of voting so that it does not "influence" the voters.

A meeting of the Union Cabinet gave its approval for restricting publication of exit polls till the last poll in an election is over, Finance Minister P Chidambaram told reporters here. The move is seen as an effort to ensure that polls which are generally spread over several phases are free and fair.

The meeting gave its nod to amend the Representation of the People Act, 1951, for this purpose.

"Restriction on telecasting of exit polls would enable the voters to exercise their right to vote without being influenced by the projection of telecast after one phase of voting is over and other phases are yet to be completed," he said.

The move comes ahead of crucial assembly polls in six states and the Lok Sabha elections early next year.