Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar stated on Saturday that the public has a right to know whether the political parties’ promises to hold elections can actually be fulfilled. He also made it clear that the issue is still under investigation.
He added that the whole issue is part of an ongoing case and that the matter was sub judice. Political parties have a right to make promises in their election manifestos, and the public has a right to know if these are sincere and how these programs could be funded.
In response to inquiries during a press conference held here, Rajiv Kumar stated that the Election Commission has created a “proforma” to require parties to disclose their election pledges. But this is also connected to the ongoing legal issue.
He claimed that law enforcement organizations have been told to maintain vigilance and stop giving out freebies and cash. The duty of overseeing internet transactions has also been placed on the National Payments Corporation of India.
In response to a query about “fake news,” he stated, “You mentioned that election dates have been announced, so that’s why fake news is running today. However, within 30 minutes, this fake news was refuted and its falsity was made abundantly evident.”
Rajiv Kumar stated, “A majority of parties said that many parties have commenced parking of funds for distribution to voters,” following two days of meetings with political parties.
“We met various political parties – both national like the BJP, INC and state parties like the AIADMK, DMK. A majority of their demands were single-phase elections, curb on distribution of money and freebies,” he said.
The parties also sought action to prevent ‘voter impersonation,’ distribution of liquor and transfer of money through online mode.
During past elections in Tamil Nadu, parties have often accused each other of ‘inducing’ voters by distributing cash and gifts.
Read More
UP Police Recruitment Exam Cancelled, Re-Exam in 6 Months
