With the Election Commission seeking information relating to all funds received by political parties, an uncomfortable Government seems to have put the matter temporarily on hold by seeking law Commission’s view on the poll panel’s proposed move.
Expecting a response within a month, a law Ministry official said that the matter involved an amendment to the Representation of Peoples Act for which the view of the law Commission was sought.
Under the present arrangement, Section 29C of the RP Act requires the treasurer of a political party or any other person authorised by it to prepare a report about the contribution in excess of Rs 20,000 received by the party from any person or other entities in a financial year.
The EC wants this cap on the sum removed. Once the Commission’s report is tabled in Parliament, the Government has the option to convene an all-party meeting as the issue concerns all parties.
In a recent communication to poll panel, law Ministry has stated the “present legal position” that the RP Act only makes it mandatory for political parties to file details every year of funds/donations they receive in excess of Rs 20,000.
The law panel is already expected to submit its report on electoral reforms next month in which the aspect of funds will be reflected.
In October last year, EC had proposed to amend Form 24A, which makes it mandatory for political parties to file details every year of funds/donations they receive in excess of Rs 20,000.