Enumerate the major flaws and possible solution of the anti-defection law. Why it is said that this law fails to safeguard a party member if his or her party president becomes a dictator? Discuss in the light of recent examples.

There are several major flaws in the current Anti-defection law. Firstly, it restricts freedom of speech and vote on issues of MPs/MLAs inside the Parliament/Legislature because whips are issues for more than 90% of issues. Secondly, the decision of Speaker/Chairperson ..

Topics: GS-II: Salient Features of the Representation of Peoples Act

In India, the speaker contests election for a seat in parliament on a party ticket and yet is expected to conduct in a non-partisan manner. Has this paradox affected the credibility of speaker's office? Discuss while comparing office of speaker of India with similar offices in UK and United States.

There is a paradox in the office of speaker in India. A speaker in India, both in parliament (Lok Sabha) and state assemblies contests elections of MP or MLA on party ticket and then is elected as speaker by the ..

Topics: GS-II: Salient Features of the Representation of Peoples Act

Do you agree with the view that the convicted lawmakers should be automatically disqualified after conviction? Discuss while keeping Lily Thomas case in focus.|

Criminalization of the politics has been an issue plaguing the Indian political system. As per Association for Democratic reforms, current Parliament has highest number of politicians facing criminal charges like kidnapping, sexual assault etc. The convicted law makers should be ..

Topics: GS-II: Salient Features of the Representation of Peoples Act

At the heart of the case relating to the interpretation of Section 123 of the Representation of People's Act, 1951 (Act), is the issue of free speech. Explain.

Free and fair elections  are bedrock of successful democracy. Free and fair elections are ensured through independent election commission, laws under Representation of People’s Act 1951 which govern conduct and disqualification of candidates. Section 123 of RPA 1951 imposes restriction ..

Topics: GS-II: Salient Features of the Representation of Peoples Act

As per Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)'s report, 77% of total income of two major parties in India is from unknown sources. In this context what is section 29 C of Representation of People's act? How is this legal provision misused to fund political parties anonymously? Suggest measures to ensure transparency in funding ? Also, discuss the possibilities of state funding of elections.|

ADR, which works for electoral reforms reported that in the fiscal year 2016,  77% of total income of two major political parties came from unknown sources. Such “income from unknown sources” refers to that income where for donations are less than ..

Topics: GS-II: Salient Features of the Representation of Peoples Act

Many of India's biggest industrial houses have taken advantage of a new law to set up electoral trusts but the transparency in corporate donations to political parties still remains a major issue."" Discuss critically."

Section 13B of Income Tax Act 1961 provides that the companies looking to provide funding to political parties can set up, Electoral Trust which would be a non-profit company. Tax benefits were provided to such companies who fund political outfits ..

Topics: GS-II: Salient Features of the Representation of Peoples Act