Has ECI Requested Political Parties to Submit Constitutions Within 30 Days?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ECI's Request: Political parties must submit their constitutions.
- Transparency: This move aims to enhance democratic accountability.
- Deadline: 30 days for compliance.
- Public Knowledge: Information will be accessible to the public.
- Legal Framework: Guidelines established under Indian law.
New Delhi, Dec 8 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has formally requested that all recognized National and State political parties submit a copy of their most recent constitution, including any amendments, within a period of 30 days.
This request is timely, coinciding with ongoing discussions regarding the adherence to party constitutions by political entities during a Supreme Court hearing in the case of Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay versus Union of India, as per an official statement.
The ECI emphasized, "The party constitution serves as a crucial document that outlines essential information about the party's goals and the procedures it must follow to operate democratically. This information is necessary for both party members and the broader public to be aware of their rights and responsibilities."
Furthermore, to enhance the integrity of the electoral landscape, it is imperative that all parties comply with the stipulations set forth in their respective constitutions, the letter stated.
In the communication, penned by Ashwani Kumar Mohal, Secretary of the ECI, it was requested that the latest constitution and its amendments be provided to the ECI within 30 days to facilitate its publication on the ECI's website.
The ECI representative noted that, under the authority granted by Article 324 of the Constitution of India and Section 29A (6) of the RP Act, 1951, the Commission has established guidelines and an application format for the registration of political parties.
These guidelines outline the necessary documents and information that must accompany the application for registering a political party, as stated.
Mohal specified, "I am directed to inform that political parties are registered with the Election Commission under Section 29A (1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The sub-section (5) mandates that the application for registration must include a copy of the memorandum or rules and regulations of the organization, regardless of its designation."