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Election commissioners Nasim Zaidi and Achal Kumar Joti, has decided in a meeting that the poll panel should "attempt" formulating a model code of conduct for the media. The Election Commission of India is keen on drafting a model code of conduct for the media to ensure that some norms are adhered to, during the coverage of elections. The election commissioners wants to formulate a model code in consultation with media houses, political parties and other stakeholders, similar to the one that exists for political parties and election candidates.

"At present, the Press Council of India and the National Broadcasting Association have some broad guidelines laid out for print and electronic media. Most media complaints that come to us during elections are usually forwarded to these bodies. Till date, there hasn't been any code from our side and this, if successful, will be a first," said an election commission official.

The official further added that, "The media has helped the EC tremendously in increasing voter awareness. Our intention isn't to have them on a leash. We are going to consult media houses and evolve a code of conduct only with consensus."

By Premji