Parasi – Even after the election silence period has begun, a Nepali Congress candidate in Nawalparasi West Constituency No. 1 has continued digital advertisements through Google, allegedly in violation of election rules. Although the Election Code of Conduct prohibits any form of campaigning during the silence period, the Congress candidate is reportedly using technology to influence voters.
Campaigning Through Google Ads Continues
The candidate’s election advertisements are still appearing on various websites and mobile applications in the form of Google Ads. Clicking on the advertisement directly opens the candidate’s official website, www.binodformp.com, where his agenda and campaign materials are displayed.
What Does the Code of Conduct Say?
The Election Commission has clarified that the silence period comes into effect 48 hours before voting. During this period:
Seeking votes through any physical or digital medium is prohibited.
Paid advertisements on social media, online portals, or search engines are not allowed.
Posting new campaign materials or continuing promotional activities is forbidden.
Challenge for the Election Commission
As the candidate has allegedly kept the “digital shutter” open during the silence period, local voters and stakeholders have raised concerns about violations of the Code of Conduct. While physical rallies and gatherings have been halted, continued digital advertising has raised questions regarding electoral fairness.
At the local level, there are calls for the Election Commission to immediately remove such digital advertisements and initiate action against candidates found violating the Code of Conduct.