Mon Nov 03 08:59:30 UTC 2025: News Article:
Supreme Court to Examine Plea for Transparency in Political Party Functioning
New Delhi, November 3, 2025: The Supreme Court of India has agreed to examine a petition seeking to mandate the Election Commission of India (EC) to establish rules for the registration and regulation of political parties. The plea, filed by advocate A.K. Upadhyay, aims to ensure greater public transparency regarding the internal structure, officebearers, and overall functioning of political parties.
The court, headed by Justice Surya Kant, issued a notice regarding the application, which argues that political parties function akin to “public authorities.” Upadhyay highlighted that parties are granted statutory status under the Representation of the People Act and significantly influence democratic governance through candidate selection, policy formation, and the overall stability of governments.
The application also calls for the EC to deregister inactive “shell” parties and bar convicted individuals from forming or holding office in registered political parties. It emphasizes the considerable power wielded by parties, including their ability to disqualify legislators and influence legislative processes.
Upadhyay urged the court to direct the EC to enforce adherence to published memorandums, rules, and regulations by all political parties, with compliance reports submitted to the Supreme Court. Citing previous court precedents, the application asserts that the EC possesses executive authority under Article 324 of the Constitution to safeguard the integrity and fairness of the electoral process, particularly in areas not explicitly covered by legislation.
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