Facebook, Google To Carry Only EC Approved Pol Ads To Rule Out Foreign Intervention

Mumbai: Social Networking giant Facebook, Google and YouTube on Monday told the Bombay High Court that they are introducing strict pre-verification processes for online political advertisements on their domains in India, ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

The parties also informed that they can stop political ads from appearing on their platforms 48 hours before polling if the Election Commission directs so.

Social media sites are also being covered under this. The lawyers representing Facebook and Google said the ECI must be directed to ensure stricter implementation of the notification not just by social media but also by political parties.

“Beginning Thursday, any Indian national who wishes to post an advertisement on politics or any matter of national interest on Facebook will need to submit his or her ID card issued by a valid Indian authority, submit proof of residence based in India, and pay for it only in Indian currency,” said advocate Khambata.

This will also help weed out “foreign intervention” ahead of elections and ensure free and fair polls, he said.

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