Why Did ECI Delist 474 Political Parties?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has intensified its efforts to streamline the electoral process by delisting 474 political parties that failed to participate in elections for six years. With this action, the number of delisted parties has reached 808. Hearings will be held for parties facing further scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- ECI delisted 474 RUPPs for non-participation in elections.
- Total of 808 RUPPs removed since August 2025.
- Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu had the most delisted parties.
- Proceedings initiated against 359 other RUPPs for non-compliance.
- Show-cause notices will be issued to ensure fairness.
New Delhi, Sep 19 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ramped up its efforts to reform the electoral landscape by removing an additional 474 Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) for not participating in elections for six consecutive years.
The Commission announced in a press release on Friday that with this latest action, the total number of RUPPs removed since August 2025 has reached 808.
In the initial phase, on August 9, 334 RUPPs were delisted, marking the beginning of this significant initiative.
“In the first phase, ECI had delisted 334 RUPPs on August 9, 2025. Following this, in the second phase, 474 RUPPs were removed on September 18, 2025, due to non-participation in elections for six years. Therefore, a total of 808 RUPPs have been removed in the past two months,” stated the ECI.
According to Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, registered political parties enjoy certain privileges such as election symbols and tax exemptions.
However, the guidelines mandate that any party that does not contest elections for a continuous period of six years must be expelled from the register.
The recent delisting on September 18 saw the largest number of RUPPs eliminated from Uttar Pradesh (121), followed by Maharashtra (44), Tamil Nadu (42), and Delhi (40). Other states like Punjab (21), Madhya Pradesh (23), Bihar (15), and Andhra Pradesh (17) also contributed significantly to this list.
Additionally, the ECI has commenced actions against 359 other RUPPs that have failed to present their annual audited accounts for three consecutive financial years (2021-22 to 2023-24) and have not submitted required election expenditure reports despite contesting elections.
These parties are spread across 23 states and Union Territories, with Uttar Pradesh (127), Tamil Nadu (39), and Delhi (41) representing a significant portion of the non-compliant entities.
The Commission has instructed the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) in the respective states and UTs to issue show-cause notices to the identified parties. Hearings will follow prior to any conclusive actions regarding delisting.
“To ensure fairness, the CEOs have been directed to send show-cause notices to these RUPPs, allowing them an opportunity for a hearing before any final decision is made,” the statement read.
“The ECI will ultimately decide on the delisting of any RUPP based on the reports provided by the CEOs,” the Commission clarified.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the ECI's commitment to ensuring electoral integrity. This action not only cleans up the political landscape but also reinforces the importance of accountability among political parties. Upholding democratic values is crucial for a robust electoral process.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the delisting of RUPPs?
The Election Commission delisted RUPPs for failing to contest elections for six consecutive years, as mandated by the guidelines.
How many parties have been delisted so far?
A total of 808 Registered Unrecognised Political Parties have been removed from the list since August 2025.
What actions are being taken against non-compliant parties?
The ECI has initiated proceedings against 359 RUPPs for not submitting their annual audited accounts and election expenditure reports.
Which states had the most delisted parties?
Uttar Pradesh had the highest number with 121 parties, followed by Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
What is the procedure for parties facing delisting?
The ECI has instructed CEOs to issue show-cause notices and conduct hearings before any final decision on delisting is made.
