With the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) taking effect following the announcement of Bihar’s Assembly Election and eight bye-elections on October 6, 2025, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has formally directed all political parties and candidates to comply with new rules governing the use of artificial intelligence and synthetic content during campaigns.
Safeguarding Election Integrity in the Age of AI
The ECI advisory marks one of India’s first detailed regulatory responses to the misuse of AI in election campaigns. It explicitly prohibits the creation or distribution of deepfakes, synthetic videos, or digitally enhanced media that distort facts or misrepresent rival parties and candidates.
According to the MCC provisions, political criticism must remain confined to verified public records, policies, and performance. Any unverified allegations, personal attacks, or manipulation of information through AI-generated content are strictly prohibited.
To ensure transparency, parties and candidates must clearly label all AI-generated or modified materials used in campaign communication or advertising. Approved labels include “AI-Generated,” “Digitally Enhanced,” and “Synthetic Content.” These disclosures will help voters distinguish authentic material from manipulated media, reinforcing accountability in digital political communication.
Strengthened Monitoring and Enforcement Measures
The Election Commission has deployed special monitoring teams to track digital content shared across social media platforms and online channels. These teams will maintain 24×7 oversight to prevent the spread of misinformation that could influence voter sentiment or disrupt the election environment.
The Commission has also reiterated that any violation of these AI-related MCC guidelines will invite strict action, signaling a strong stance against emerging risks in digital campaigning.
Beyond AI content regulation, the ECI’s broader effort aims to preserve the integrity, fairness, and transparency of India’s electoral process. By extending MCC compliance to online spaces, the Commission acknowledges the expanding influence of digital media and the urgent need for adaptive governance in the era of generative AI.
Setting a Precedent for Future Elections
The new AI directive positions India among the first democracies to introduce formal transparency standards for political AI content. The Commission’s proactive approach underscores the country’s commitment to ethical technology use in governance and elections.
As India prepares for upcoming national and state elections, these guardrails are expected to serve as a model for managing AI-driven communication—balancing innovation with public trust.
