New Delhi, Oct 16 (UNI) In a landmark move to level the electoral playing field, the Election Commission of India today announced the distribution of digital broadcast vouchers to political parties contesting the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
The initiative ensures free and fair access to airtime on Doordarshan and All India Radio through an innovative IT platform, eliminating the need for physical voucher collection. As per a poll panel statement issued today, each political party has been allocated a baseline of 45 minutes of broadcast time on both Doordarshan and AIR regional networks, allowing them to reach voters across the vast state. Additional airtime has been granted to parties in proportion to their performance in Bihar’s previous Assembly election, reflecting the ECI’s commitment to equitable representation. The allocated broadcast and telecast slots will be scheduled from the day the list of contesting candidates is published for each phase up to two days before polling, enabling timely voter engagement.
In line with Commission guidelines, parties must submit transcripts and recordings in advance, ensuring adherence to prescribed content standards. Recordings can be produced in Prasar Bharati-approved studios or at Doordarshan/AIR Kendras.
Further enhancing democratic discourse, Prasar Bharati Corporation will host up to two panel discussions or debates on Doordarshan and AIR focused on Bihar’s electoral issues. Eligible parties may nominate one representative each to participate, with sessions moderated by an accredited coordinator.
This digital leap marks a significant stride towards transparency and inclusivity in Indian elections, empowering all political voices to connect with the electorate and reinforcing the pillars of democracy ahead of the crucial Bihar polls.
