FAQ's
General Elections
2025

Q1: Can GBM share posters and videos of candidates on Whatsapp?
A: No, you cannot share posters and videos of candidates in groups and personal messages. Only candidates can share their manifestos on individual WhatsApp chats, strictly not in any groups or any other social media platforms. If the manifesto is accompanied by any supporting message, the same should be verified by EC first.

Q2: Can GBM share the posters of candidates on Instagram stories?
A: GBMs are allowed to share the posters of any candidate only after it has been uploaded from the EC official Instagram page and it should be done without any modifications.While sharing any such posters, neither any extra text should be added nor any person should be tagged.

Q3: Can GBM criticize any candidate?
A: Criticism of any candidate by any GBM, when made, shall be confined to the manifesto of the candidate or any proven action of the candidate in relation to a position of responsibility held by the candidate during SOAPBox sessions.

Q4: What is campaigning?
A: Campaigners can carry forward the ideas/agenda of their candidate and can solicit votes for their candidate even when their candidate is not part of the discussion.

Q5: What is anti-campaigning?
A: Anti-campaigning shall consist of unauthorized criticism of candidates, personal attacks unrelated to their public role, or soliciting votes against a candidate.

Q6: Is anti-campaigning allowed?
A: Anti-campaigning in any form by any GBM, campaigners, candidates, or otherwise is strictly prohibited.

Q7: What is the meaning of the silence period?
A: The silence period is the period where neither candidates nor their campaigners are allowed to campaign.

Q8: During the blackout period, can the Gymkhana conduct activities?
A: Not generally. Only when EC approves. No candidate, proposer, seconder, or campaigner shall participate in any such activity, even if the activity has been allowed by EC.

Q9: What is the difference between a campaigner and a sympathizer?
A: Sympathizers are general body members (GBM) who cannot ask for votes and support for any candidate. Campaigners can carry forward the ideas/agenda of their candidate and solicit votes even when the candidate is not present.

Q10: What is the difference between GBM and campaigner?
A: A GBM is a student member who has the right to vote in the elections, whereas a campaigner consents to support and solicit votes for a candidate. A GBM cannot directly ask for votes or support for any candidate.

Q11: In case of a penalty, where can we appeal to?
A: The student may file a complaint with the GRC (Grievance Redressal Committee) and defend their case.

Q12: What is the role of a campaign manager?
A: The campaign manager assists the candidate during the election campaign. The campaign manager is accountable to the EC for campaign-related matters.

Q13: What items are prohibited for canvassing purposes?
A: The use of loudspeakers, vehicles, and animals for canvassing is prohibited to maintain fairness and prevent disturbances.

Q14: Can I use the Institute or Gymkhana facilities for campaigning?
A: No Institute and Gymkhana facilities or hall properties can be used for campaigning. Adhere to the designated campaigning areas outlined by the EC.

Q15: What is SOAP BOX, and who can participate?
A: SOAP BOX is organized by the EC, allowing candidates to discuss their manifestos and answer questions. It is open to the General Body, ensuring transparency.

Q16: What is Executive Dialogue and Debate (EDAD)?
A: EDAD is organized by the EC, involving candidates discussing their manifestos and participating in a debate. It is live-streamed for transparency.

Q17: What penalties can candidates face for violations?
A: Penalties for candidates may include a deduction in the campaigning period, fines, or, in severe cases, cancellation of nomination and disciplinary actions. Penalties for GBMs and other office bearers may include fines or disciplinary action.

Q18: Can the same penalty be imposed on a person more than once?
A: Yes, the same level of penalty may be imposed on a person more than once, depending on the nature and repetition of the violations.

Q19: Is there a specific order in which penalties are imposed?
A: No, penalties do not need to be imposed in a specific order. They may be imposed at the discretion of the EC.

Q20: Does a mute on a candidate count against the entire team?
A: Yes. If a mute period is applied to a candidate, their entire team, including proposers, seconders, and campaigners, will also have the mute period applied.