In a major clean up drive, aimed at dealing with the problem of violation of rules by registered unrecognised political parties, the Election Commission, on Wednesday, announced that it will initiate action against more than 2,100 such parties for failing to furnish their contribution reports and comply with other norms.
The Election Commission said in a statement that it will initiate graded action against more than 2,100 registered unrecognised parties for not furnishing their contribution reports and failure to inform the EC about any change in their names, addresses, head office and office bearers.
As many as 2,174 parties have not submitted contribution reports. Besides, 66 parties claimed income tax exemption in the financial year 2020-21 without complying with statutory requirements under the Representation of the People Act.
"Action to be initiated against those receiving donations without due statutory compliances. Action initiated against three registered unrecognised political parties (RUPPs) reported to be involved in serious financial impropriety. Eighty-seven non-existent RUPPs shall be deleted from the list and benefits under the Symbols Order (1968) withdrawn," the EC said.
The commission said it has evidence of serious financial impropriety, willful attempts for tax evasion and other illegal financial activities against three specific parties amounting to fraudulent use of privileges and public trust available to them. Also, as many as 87 non-existent parties shall be deleted.
There are 2,796 registered unrecognised political parties as in September 2021, which is an increase of over 300 per cent since 2001.
