The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Exit polls

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Monday, Apr 26, 2004

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Exit polls

Sir, — This refers to the article "Not good practice" (April 24). There are many sources of information such as newspapers, magazines, TV, radio, websites, Internet discussion rooms, etc.

If it is acceptable for people to read and listen to news from so many sources, which have their own inherent bias, why should exit and opinion polls be banned?

They are just an addition to a whole plethora of sources.

Dilip Rao,
Bangalore

* * *

Sir, — The fact remains that those who are arguing that a ban on exit polls is unconstitutional are the media.

They seem to be under the impression that what is good for them is also good for the people.

Abinesh Nimalan,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — All conclusions are subject to a margin of error. The accuracy decreases with the increase in parameters.

Unlike other countries, the parameters involved are numerous in India. Opinion polls, no doubt, should continue, so as to cater to the interest among those who follow them.

But publishing the results of exit polls halfway through a multi-phase electoral process is not good.

A. Mohan,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — The media are going full blast, proclaiming verdicts based on exit polls. In every medium, TV, radio or print, discussions centre around pre-conceived judgments based on exit polls. Such media distortions in a multi-phase election process could force opinions on the electorate.

J.S. Ramlal,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — The results of exit polls are sure to have an impact on those voting in the second phase. These polls are misleading.

P. Krishna,
Chennai

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