Election Model Code Of Conduct: Dos And Don’ts For WhatsApp Group Admins, Users     

While the Election commission’s code of conduct for the upcoming elections is making the rounds, WhatsApp group administrators have been carefully trying to warn the members of WhatsApp groups to refrain from posting something which would go against the code of conduct. A message with the title Important has spammed Whatsapp.

It reads as follows: ‘All have been informed about the implementation of model code of conduct. I request you all to post political updates very carefully. Do not post in favor of or against any political party which might violate the model code of conduct. Please cooperate.’

A Whatsapp group from MP was made to share the news. The admin of that group Khalid said, “Fault- intentional or non-intentional may land group admin into trouble, therefore it is better to remain cautious.”

Prabha Bhargava is the admin of a WhatsApp group that has more than 183 members of friends and family. One of his friends, Jinesh Jain posted the message warning not to post any objectionable update that could invite trouble.

“We have formed the group for healthy interaction and exchange of ideas of old friends and friend of friends. We may have different opinions but we still remain friends but during election times one needs to remain extra careful as police take holds the group admin responsible,” said Bhargava.

Moreover, the election commission has also set up Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) to keep an eye on Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, bulk SMS, internet platforms etc “Social media platforms will never be allowed to abuse India’s election process and stringent measures backed by laws on data protection and individual privacy have been put in place,” said Chief Electoral Officer, VL Kanta Rao

Also Read: Will Poll Panel Clampdown on Social Media Ahead Of Elections