State Election Commission says viral WhatsApp and social-media election dates are fake; warns of strict action
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) has warned the public and political groups against fake election schedules being circulated on WhatsApp and social media, claiming to show dates for the upcoming rural and urban local-body elections.
State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha clarified that no official election schedule has been announced yet and that the dates being circulated online are not genuine.
Fake schedule circulated on social media
According to the SEC, messages containing supposed dates and schedules for rural and urban local-body elections have been widely circulated through WhatsApp and other social-media groups.
The messages were presented as if they were official communications. Some reportedly used the names and logos of government departments and organisations without authorisation. The circulation of these messages prompted members of the public to contact the State Election Commission seeking clarification.
SEC issues clarification
State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha said that the election dates circulating on social media are fake, unauthenticated and not official.
The SEC made it clear that genuine information relating to the elections will be announced only through an official press note or press conference. The public has been asked not to treat messages from unofficial sources or social-media accounts as authentic election information.
Warning of legal action
The Commission also issued a strong warning to people who deliberately create or circulate misleading election information.
According to the SEC, those found intentionally spreading false information could face strict action under applicable cyber laws and rules. The Commission also warned against misuse of its name or logo in unauthorised election-related communications.
Why the issue is politically important
The announcement comes at a time when political parties and local leaders are closely watching preparations for the upcoming rural and urban local-body elections.
With election-related discussions increasing, the circulation of fake schedules could create confusion among voters, candidates, political parties and local administrations. The SEC therefore urged everyone to verify election-related information through official channels before sharing it.
Latest update
As of August 25, 2026, the SEC has not officially released the election dates or final schedule referred to in the viral messages. The Commission has asked the public and media organisations to wait for an official announcement