Detailed guidelines have been issued by the Election Commission of India in the context of media coverage for the Lok Sabha Elections-2024. The Commission has said that as per Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, there will be a ban on broadcast of any election related matter (advertisement or publicity etc.) through television, cinematograph or other similar communication medium. This restriction will remain in effect for a period up to 48 hours before the end of polling in any polling area. The Commission has clarified that no person shall show any election matter to the public through the medium of cinematograph, television or other similar equipment. For violating these provisions, the guilty person can be punished with imprisonment of up to two years or fine or both. According to the Commission, any attempt to influence the outcome of the election or such intention or calculation will be considered as an election matter.