Election Commission Orders Closure of 11 Online ‘Live’ Poll Platforms Ahead of March 5 Vote

Kathmandu: The Election Commission has directed authorities to shut down 11 online platforms for conducting ‘live’ polls related to the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5.

The Commission said the platforms breached the election code of conduct, which prohibits opinion polls during the election period. Joint Spokesperson Sita Pun stated that such activities could unduly influence voters and undermine their right to make independent choices.

Citing Section 23 of the Election Commission Act, 2073, the Commission warned that violations of the code could result in a fine of Rs 100,000 and even cancellation of candidacy.

Speaking at an orientation programme on election reporting organised in collaboration with the Commission, officials stressed the vital role of the media in ensuring free, fair and fearless polls.

At the event hosted by Rastriya Samachar Samiti, Federation of Nepali Journalists President Nirmala Sharma urged journalists to strictly follow professional ethics. She emphasised that election coverage must remain impartial, respect confidentiality and avoid discrimination based on region, gender, language or culture.