Plea in SC on framing rules to register parties, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court will examine a plea to direct the Election Commission (EC) to frame rules for the registration and regulation of political parties.
• The plea seeks transparency in the inner structure, office-bearers, and functioning of political parties.
• The EC and the Central Government have been issued a notice regarding this application.
• The petitioner argues that political parties function as a “public authority”.

Detailed Insights:

• Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act grants statutory status to political parties, requiring them to uphold the Constitution.
• The petitioner contends that the EC should de-register “shell” political parties and prevent convicted individuals from forming new ones.
• The plea highlights concerns about the increasing number of inactive or dubious political parties and the need for greater accountability.
• Enhanced regulation aims to ensure that political parties adhere to democratic principles and maintain public trust.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Political Party: An organized group of people with shared political aims, who seek to gain political power.
• Election Commission (EC): Constitutional body responsible for administering elections in India.
• Representation of the People Act: Law that governs the conduct of elections to the Parliament and State Legislatures.