Rejecting the demands from certain quarters to de-recognise
the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) for allegedly promoting “casteism and hatred
among various communities”, the Election Commission has made it clear that it
had no such powers or provisions to do the same on this charge during the non-election
time, even if the allegation is true. Of course, during poll, when the
model code of conduct is in force, the Commission, based on the evidences, can
issue notice and seek explanation if any such complaint is received. It can
even withdraw the recognition if any party fails to fall in line with the
directions of the Commission and continue to violate MCC (Model Code of
Conduct) provisions.
A political party’s
recognition could be withdrawn during the non-poll time – under the Election
Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) order, 1968 – only on other issues like not
getting a certain percentage of votes/certain number of MLAs, MPs during
general elections to the Legislative Assembly/Lok Sabha, and failing to abide
by the lawful directions of the Commission. Even not upholding democracy in the
party set up or failure to file the mandatory accounts/expenditure of the
organisation could also attract de-recognition after the Commission issues
notice and not satisfied with the reply.
The official pointed out that
the Commission had very little role to play with regard to the allegations like
“promoting enmity between communities, castes” vis-a-vis demand for withdrawing
recognition of political parties. It is for the other enforcement agencies to
pursue such complaints. Withdrawal of recognition to a political party mean
that the party will not be invited for the meeting of the representatives of
the recognised political parties, convened by the Commission, withdrawing its
allotted poll symbol, and such party cannot enjoy other privileges and
facilities given by the Commission to the recognised parties.
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