Election Commission Of India Mandates Disclosure Of Criminal Background For Poll Candidates
Election Commission Of India Mandates Disclosure Of Criminal Background For Poll Candidates
In a significant move to enhance transparency in the electoral process, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed candidates with criminal backgrounds to publicly disclose their case details. This decision aims to empower voters with comprehensive information about candidates’ backgrounds, enabling informed decision-making.
Over 500 aspirants have filed their nominations for the upcoming assembly election, and the ECI’s guidelines dictate that criminal record details must be disclosed and monitored by the respective returning officer of each assembly constituency. “Strict monitoring will be done as per ECI directives,” said Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Kiran Kulkarni while speaking with the media. Returning officers will ensure that candidates with criminal records publish details in newspapers, television channels, and social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter.
Disclosure Requirements
- – Candidates and political parties must publish disclosure information three times during the election campaign period.
- – Disclosures must appear in national and local newspapers, television channels, and social media platforms.
- – Information must also be published on the official websites of political parties.
- – Political parties must provide a full explanation for selecting a candidate with a criminal record, citing reasons related to qualifications and achievements.
The timeline for these disclosures is stringent, with candidates and parties required to publish details within 48 hours of the candidate’s selection. Non-compliance will be treated as contempt of Supreme Court orders and escalated to the ECI for immediate action. This move is part of broader electoral reforms aimed at increasing transparency in the political process.
In a related development, Maharashtra’s 19 enforcement agencies have seized illegal assets worth Rs 100.40 crore, including cash, liquor, drugs, and precious metals, between October 15 and 25. The Election Commission has also received 1,259 complaints on the C-Vigil app, with 1,250 settled during the same period.
In conclusion, the ECI’s mandate for criminal background disclosure is a crucial step towards ensuring transparency in the electoral process. By providing voters with comprehensive information, this move aims to promote informed decision-making and strengthen the integrity of India’s democratic system.
