EC asks political parties to provide information on financial viability

The purpose of the Election Commission is to inform voters about the financial stability of the election promises contained in the manifesto and whether they are sustainable within the framework of state/union financial insights.

“It cannot ignore the insufficient disclosure on election promises and the consequent undesirable impact on financial stability as empty electoral promises have far-reaching implications,” the Election Commission said.

ECI prescribes a standardized disclosure proforma, which facilitates comparability with minute details capturing comprehensively the standard parameters used in FC, RBI, FRBM, CAG and Budget.

While the current guidelines under the Model Code of Conduct require political parties and candidates to explain the justification of commitments contained therein and the possible ways and means of funding such commitments, the Election Commission of India has noted that these statements are too mundane. and are unclear. And don’t provide enough information to voters. Information for making informed choices in elections.

The Election Commission, in a meeting chaired by CEC Rajeev Kumar and CEC Anoop Chandra Pandey, decided that the Election Commission cannot remain a mute spectator, cannot ignore the ill-effects of certain promises and proposals on free and fair elections and reduce the level of turnout. can maintain. All playing fields of political parties and candidates. The ECI agrees in principle that it is the right of the political parties to prepare the manifesto.

This came amid an ongoing political debate over freebie politics.