Expenses on bulk SMS (short message service) for electioneering will also be included in candidate’s account. On receiving information from service provider, concerned returning officer will include estimated expenditure on these bulk SMSes in candidate or candidates’ bank accounts. Election Commission of India has issued directives regarding this.
According to the commission, sending bulk SMSes of political nature will be prohibited during 48 hours before the date of polling. Directives have also been given that all service providers must bring information about such bulk SMSes to the notice of all concerned immediately. It has come to the notice of the commission that vested interest send some objectionable SMSes also during election period violating model code of conduct and directives given in this regard. The commission has also issued directives to ensure free, fair and peaceful electoral process. Police administration has been directed regarding such objectionable SMSes to publicise their special mobile numbers to which people can forward such SMSes received by them. First the police conduct enquiry and then ensure proper action against the sender under provisions of Indian Penal Code, Representation of People Act, 1951, Conduct of Election Rules 1961 and directives issued by the commission.