Vinay Karanam The Election Commission of India (ECI), as the constitutional body responsible for overseeing elections in the country, plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. In recent times, the ECI has taken significant steps to enforce discipline and accountability among political parties. Let’s delve into some key actions taken by the ECI:
1. Notices to Star Campaigners: A Shift in Approach
Traditionally, the ECI issued general advisories to political parties regarding the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). However, a notable shift occurred during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections when the ECI sent notices directly to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC). These notices were in response to complaints against star campaigners, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi. Unlike previous instances where individual campaigners received notices, this time the ECI held political parties accountable for MCC violations by their star campaigners1.
The notices emphasized that individual star campaigners are responsible for their own speeches, and the ECI may, on a “case-by-case basis,” take action against political parties for violations. This move reflects a calibrated approach to curb repeat offenders and underscores the ECI’s commitment to maintaining electoral decorum1.
2. Graded Action Against Unrecognized Political Parties
The ECI has also turned its attention to Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs). These parties often escape scrutiny due to their lack of recognition. However, the ECI initiated action against more than 2,100 RUPPs for non-compliance with statutory requirements under the Representation of the People (RP) Act. By doing so, the ECI aims to ensure financial discipline, public accountability, and propriety among these lesser-known parties2.
3. Deletion of Non-Existent Political Parties
In a bold move, the ECI deleted 111 registered unrecognised political parties that were found to be “non-existent.” Additionally, it referred three parties to the Department of Revenue for legal action due to serious financial impropriety. This step demonstrates the ECI’s commitment to maintaining a clean and transparent political landscape3.
4. Linking Responsibility to Party Ideals
The ECI has legally linked the level of responsibility of star campaigners to that of the political party they represent. When parties register with the ECI, they commit to adhering to the ideals of the Constitution. By reminding them of this commitment, the ECI aims to hold parties accountable for the actions of their star campaigners1.
As India continues its democratic journey, the ECI’s proactive measures signal a renewed focus on electoral ethics. By targeting both recognized and unrecognized parties, the ECI strives to ensure fair elections and uphold the democratic spirit of the nation.
