Question Q.12GS2GS2
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.
Main Body
Representation of People's Act, 1951 was enacted to fulfil parliament's duty under Article 324 to define process of elections in India. SALIENT FEATURES: (1) It includes features about actual conduct of elections. (2) It includes detailed provisions on eligibility criteria for contesting elections (3) It lists grounds of disqualification. eg section 8 of RPA, 1951 (4) It lists duties of Election Commission during and after conduct of elections.
5It also exists features of campaigning and rules around expenditure by candidates. CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES: (1) Increase in criminalization of politics. eg 16th Lok Sabha has 401 MPs with criminal records. (2) Increase in corrupt practices of funding. eg electoral bonds disclosure. (3) Use of technology for propaganda. eg use of Cambridge Analytica. (4) Increase in influence of artificial intelligence and disruption in spreading misinformation. (5) Continuous violations of Model Code of Conduct. Amendments Needed: (1) Follow recommendations of Goswami Committee to prevent criminalization - don't allow even undefeated to contest. [Stan Chaunidari Case 2013] (2) Consider state funding to create level playing fields. eg as per Indrajit Verma Committee. (3) Rules & regulations regarding use of technology. eg EU's Code for Disinformation, 2022 (4) Statutory recognition for Model Code of Conduct & action within 48 hours of violation Free & fair elections are bedrock of any democratic process & necessary for democratic functioning.
222 words1 paragraphs
Conclusion
Free & fair elections are bedrock of any democratic process & necessary for democratic functioning.
15 words
Topper
PRASTUTI UPADHAYA
AIR 842024MGP
Subject & Paper
GS2GS2
Topic
Salient Features of the Representation of People's Act
Representation of Peoples Act
Features of RPA 1951 and required amendments
Writing Stats
237
Total words
1
Paragraphs