The Election Commission has asked political parties to ensure that its candidates mention their foreign bank accounts and details of investments, assets and liabilities abroad in their affidavits during filing of nomination.
The fresh instruction by the EC is part of its effort to introduce more accountability and transparency of candidates in the poll fray. Although details of foreign bank accounts and investments are required to be filled under the present format, the Commission had noted non-disclosure by several candidates.
“It has been brought to the notice of the Commission by some NGOs and individuals that some candidates do not disclose details of their accounts in foreign banks, possession of properties or investment overseas along with loans and liabilities outside the country in the affidavit,” the poll panel said in its letter addressed to all recognised national and State political parties.
In a bid to remove any “misgivings in the minds of the people”, the poll panel asked candidates to include their details of foreign bank accounts, investments and liabilities abroad as well as of their spouse.