06 Jan New rules for allocating the symbols to unrecognized political parties
This article covers ‘ Daily Current Affairs ’ and the content details of ‘‘ New rules for allocating the symbols to unrecognized political parties’’. This content is relevant in the “Governance” section of the UPSC CSE Exam.
UPSC Mains GS-2 : Polity and Governance
Why in the News?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced a new set of rules for allocating symbols to Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs).
What are the new rules?
- The last three fiscal years’ audited accounts must be provided by RUPPs.
- They are obligated to provide expenditure reports for the previous two elections.
- In the past, the RUPPs had provided the application form for symbols and the signature of the party’s authorised office-bearer separately .These details are now included in the common symbol application format.
- The revised regulations would take effect on January 11 2023.
Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs)
- These parties fall into one of two categories: recently registered parties, parties that have never run for office after registering, or parties that did not receive enough votes in the assembly or general election to qualify as state parties.
- RUPPs are given common symbols in exchange for a promise to run “at least 5% of total candidates with regard to said Legislative Assembly election of a State.”
- Applications for the allotment of symbols under the provisions of Paragraph 10B of the Election Symbols (Reservation & Allotment) Order, 1968 are received by the EC from RUPPs in the prescribed proforma.
Challenges and issues faced by RUPPs
- Lack of exposure and credibility: RUPP struggles to raise awareness and attract voters because of their restricted means, recognition, and reach. Additionally, they struggle with credibility because the public and media frequently view them as frivolous, opportunistic, or nonserious.
- Absence of participation and representation: RUPP is hardly represented in legislatures and the government as a result of their low vote and seat shares. Additionally, they participate in the governance and policy-making processes either little or not at all. They are frequently left out of discussions, debates, and consultations on a range of topics pertaining to the general public interest.
- Lack of accountability and transparency: RUPP has problems with accountability and transparency in their operations because of their inadequate internal democracy, organisational structure, and financial management. They are frequently charged with money laundering, tax evasion, engaging in unlawful activity, defecting, merging, or splitting.
How election symbols are allocated to political parties in India?
Responsibility of ECI –
- The assignment of symbols is the responsibility of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
- The Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968 regulates this.
- This regulation aims to specify, reserve, select, and distribute symbols during elections in Assembly and Parliamentary Constituencies in order to acknowledge political parties.
- Symbols can be classified as “free” or “reserved,” which indicates they are only available to recognised political parties.If a political party satisfies specific requirements, it may be acknowledged as a national or state party.
- By publishing a notice in the Indian Gazette, the EC makes lists of the parties and their emblems available.
Unrecognised political party and election symbol-
Candidates of unregistered parties can choose from a variety of free, non-exclusive symbols.
After party selection, these symbols are proclaimed free for use by others in subsequent elections.
Recognised parties and election symbol-
Exclusive symbols are awarded to recognised national and state parties.
Unregistered parties and election symbol-
- These are expected to give the names of ten symbols, in order of choice, from the commission’s list of free symbols.
- As per the 1968 ruling, parties may also suggest three new symbols of their choice, with names and clear design and drawings, in the order of preference.
- The Commission may therefore examine these symbols for allotment as its common symbol if there is no obstacle in its opinion to allocating such symbols.
- Symbols offered by the parties should bear no resemblance to current reserved or free symbols, nor should they have any religious or communal connotation, nor should they portray any bird or animal.
Previous developments regarding RUPPs:
- To ensure transparency, the EC directed in 2014 that RUPPs seeking to use a common symbol submit proof of having filed up-to-date contribution reports, audited annual accounts, updated election expenditure statements, and their most recent organisational details.
- By 2022, the ECI had delisted 86 non-existent RUPPs and designated another 253 to be “inactive RUPPs.”
Conclusion
RUPP are an essential component of Indian democracy because they represent the different voices and perspectives of the people. They also contribute to the political system’s energy and vigour. They do, however, encounter a number of problems and issues that impede their functioning and effectiveness. As a result, it is important to strengthen their registration and regulating procedure, enhance their privileges and advantages, encourage coalition and cooperation, and promote their internal democracy and governance.
Mains practice Questions
Question 1) Explain the importance of the Representation of the People Act of 1951 in determining India’s electoral landscape. Examine its essential clauses and their implications for the democratic process.
Question 2) Examine the problem of electoral violence in India. Discuss the role of the Election Commission in guaranteeing a free and fair electoral process, particularly in areas where security is a concern.
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