EC tells political parties its transparency guidelines are binding

NEW DELHI: Rejecting the stand of political parties on its guidelines to ensure transparency in electoral funds, the Election Commission today made it clear that they were "binding" and threatened them that violations could lead to withdrawal of their recognition.

In a strongly-worded two-page letter to all the political parties, the Commission said the guidelines were necessary as "of late, the increasing use of black money in election campaigns has been noticed and is causing serious concern all around".

A number of parties had sought the rollback of these guidelines, which came into effect on October 1, calling them legally "untenable" and "vague".

"The guidelines have been framed after due consultation with all recognised political parties. The lawful instructions, thus issued by the Commission under Article 324, are binding on all political parties and their violations shall affect the transparency of election process which is the bedrock of democracy," the EC said.

The poll-body said it has been its endeavour "to maintain level playing field for all political parties and all candidates during elections".

"In the interest of conduct of free and fair elections, all parties are required to follow the transparency guidelines issued by the Commission and violation of lawful direction of the Commission may entail action, as envisaged under para 16A of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968," it said.

The particular clause stipulates the "power of Commission to suspend or withdraw recognition of a recognised political party for its failure to observe Model Code of Conduct or follow lawful directions and instructions of the Commission".

The EC reasoned that its instructions for the parties to file annual audited accounts with it, including name and addresses of individuals, companies and entities making donations to them, are "intended to ensure that no funds are received from sources which are prohibited under the Representation of Peoples Act".

These measures, it said, are "essential for maintaining transparency in the functioning of political parties, which is an essential ingredient for conduct of free and fair election".