Enumerate the salient features of Representation of People's Act, 1951. In your opinion, what amendments are needed in the Act to further the cause of free and fair elections in light of contemporary challenges.

Representation of People's Act, 1951 deals with the representatives (MP/MLA) and the matters related to their election.

Salient features of RPA, 1951:

* Candidates must be a member of electoral list to be candidate in election.

* The Age for Lok Sabha election is 18 and for Rajya Sabha is 30.

* The disqualification is under election petition filed to HC by the aggrieved person.

It reinforces the model code of conduct -> no corrupt practices both capturing and illegal practice.

* ECI has the power to assist the disqualification process of a candidate by giving support to President or governor.

* Further ECI can disqualify the nomination of any candidate.

Challenges in RPA, 1951:

* Politicization based on Caste. Caste undermines the free and fair election.

* Polarization based on Caste as a divisiveness.

* Corruption and malpractices -> Instances of freebies and frequent violation of Model Code of Conduct.

* As per ADR, many criminals are part of lok Sabha (40%)

* There needs to be transparency and accountability in the election process.

Need for Amendment in the Act:

# Use of ICT in the election process.

# Returning offices must be given adequate powers -> training and use of force.

# Suspension of people/candidate indulgence in Unmoral Activity.

The essence of democracy is based on the need & fair election.