"The EC will monitor reports of paid news very seriously and initiate criminal action against those who resort to the abhorrent practice," Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dibyendu Sarkar said at a media workshop here.
Bribing newspapers and journalists is a corrupt practice. It also seeks to influence the minds of voters in a misleading manner, Sarkar said adding, actions could be taken under the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
Speaking about various other steps taken by the poll panel, Sarkar said the Commission has launched a mobile-based software 'Samadhan' which could be used by voters or candidates to lodge poll-related complaints.
Besides, the Commission has also developed another app 'Suvidha' to help candidates seeking permission for holding meetings and using vehicles, Sarkar added.