GS2GS2

Examine the tension between the right to contest elections and the need to uphold electoral ethics under the Representation of the People Act. Should there be a lifetime ban on convicted criminals? (Answer in 250 words)

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Answer

Main Body

According to recent Lok Sabha (2024) data, 46% of MPs have a criminal case pending against them.

While Lily Thomas case quickened the process of de-registration of convicts but the problem still persists.

[Governance Dilemma]

Right to contest elections (Art 326) - Electoral ethics

Candidates in Republic India's allows liberty to all VS Carroll - "Politics with principle"

Philosopher kings need to be model leader with No criminal history

[Yes, In favour]

1Act in line with constitutional vision of paternity

2Crime against society - measure will act as [deterrence]

3Reduce the nexus of - MP criminal committee

4Cleanse the politics - ensuring youth / women to participate

5Global practice - european nations also ban.

6Reduce power of [money] and corruption (anti-ARL)

[No - should not be banned]

1Indian justice system believes in 'restorative' values not 'retributive'

2Harmer [liberty] - values of reasonable

3Hamper [Liberty] - values of reasonable

3"Punish the crime not the criminal" - law commission

1Need for structural change in value education

4Baltics and elections - freedom to participate (case structure under Indian govts vs PK Narain case)

[Way Ahead]

(*) Curfew reveling of period be upheld

(*) Fast track court of MP/MLA criminal cases

(*) Public scrutiny to increase - (AOR) - reform agenda by online popularization

Criminalization of politics needed to be weeded out with "whole of society approach"

235 words9 paragraphs

Conclusion

Criminalization of politics needed to be weeded out with "whole of society approach"

13 words

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Page 35

Topper

Deeksha Chourasiya

AIR 442025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Salient Features of the Representation of People's Act

Electoral Reforms

Criminal Background and Electoral Eligibility

Writing Stats

248

Total words

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone