MP

MADHVENDRA PRATAP SINGHAIR 153· 2025

Question Q.11GS2GS2

Briefly explain the procedure laid down in the Representation of the People Act (RPA) 1951 for the registration of political parties with the Election Commission of India (ECI). What are Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs)? What concerns are associated with them? Does the ECI have powers to de-register a political party?

Open scan (p.23)

Main Body

RPA 1951 provides a framework for conduct of elections which involve the registration of political parties. Procedure under RPA1451 for registration of political parties: 1) Sec.29A a) Written affidavit and declaration to ECI b) Declaration of funds, members and office bearers c) Resolution to abide by ideals of 'socialism' and 'secularism' d) Penalty for non-disclosure, non-compliance.

Minimum criteria of no-of members, % of each state. RUPPs: Are political parties registered with ECI but not recognized as a National or state party. (Criteria for Recognition): National50% Lok Sabha seats from 3 states State Party: 2% valid vote polled etc. Concerns both RUPPs: 1) Act as shell companies to launder money 2) Misuse of sec 124, 80j of Income Tax Act 3) Source for large Political parties to spend propaganda, black cash etc. ECI does not have the power to de-register a political party. Way ahead: 1) Power to ECI to de-register a political party (Dinesh Bhavyamani Committee) 2) AI based tools to monitor activities of inactive RUPPs. 3) Transparent Audit framework for Political Parties 4) Bringing Political Parties under RTI purview. Thus ensuring sanctity of free and fair elections in Indian democracy
193 words1 paragraphs

Topper

MADHVENDRA PRATAP SINGH

AIR 1532025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Salient Features of the Representation of People's Act

Representation of Peoples Act

Representation of Peoples Act

Writing Stats

193

Total words

1

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone