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 deregister a political party?

The Representation of the People Act RPA 1951 is a sunshine legislation to ensure a level playing field for all contesting election and ensure a healthy democracy. Procedure for registration of Political Parties with ECI: 1. Political parties with an association of people willing to conduct election must register. 2. Provide party Constitution to showcase ideology and functioning. 3. Choice of political symbols to contest election

Registered Unrecognised Political Parties RUPP These political parties are registered with the Election Commission of India. • However, they don't have a proper symbol or alleged bifurcation of pre-existing political parties. This can be due to issue of internal party conflict [Logo] Shiv Sena broke into 2 factions: one under Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray, other under Eknath Shinde. Concerns associated: 1) This leads to political ambiguity. 2) Lead to political unrest due to defection. 3) Threat to public trust as the public votes a particular candidate based on his/her liking for political party. 4) Poor awareness leads to manipulation of votes for political gain ECI's role in deregistering a party: 1) ECI cannot deregister a party 2) However, if 2/3rd strength of a party leaves to the main group, it doesn't lead to defection, rather party split.