The Election Commission (EC) on Friday directed its observers deployed for the first phase of Lok Sabha elections to ensure that fake news and misinformation is curbed in time and facts are conveyed to voters on a pro-active basis to steer a 'positive narrative'. The EC also directed the poll observers to block movement and distribution of cash, liquor, freebies and narcotics in poll-bound constituencies.

In the first phase of Lok Sabha elections, a total of 102 constituencies across 21 states are scheduled to vote on April 19.