"The Election Code of Conduct does not apply to social media or AI-generated campaign content."
This dossier summarizes the strongest available evidence and weighs competing claims.
Official Analysis
Recent directions from the Election Commission explicitly state that the Election Code of Conduct 2082 covers online spaces, including social media platforms and digital content.
The code prohibits spreading false, misleading or divisive information via social networks and specifically mentions the use of artificial intelligence to manipulate or unduly influence voters as a violation.
Official notices and media reports highlight bans on using children or government institutions in online propaganda, as well as restrictions on using deepfakes or deceptive audio-visual content that impersonates candidates or leaders.
Therefore, social media posts, videos, AI-generated images and other digital materials released during the election period are subject to the same standards and potential penalties as physical rallies and printed materials.
Evidence Index
- Exhibit 1Election Commission of Nepal
- Exhibit 2Election Code of Conduct 2082
- Exhibit 3Onlinekhabar
- Exhibit 4The Rising Nepal
- Exhibit 5The Kathmandu Post