New Delhi: The Election Commission has told the Supreme Court that any action to regulate the promises of free gifts on behalf of political parties if voted to power will be effective only if legal provisions are made in this regard. The election commission, the panel was responding to a PIL filed by advocate and BJP leader Ashwini Upadhyay seeking cancellation of registration of political parties declaring free of cost.
The Election Commission, in its affidavit, said that the Election Commission cannot regulate the policies and decisions of the state, which can be taken on behalf of the winning party if the government is formed. Such an action would be an encroachment of powers without enabling legal provisions. It should be noted that giving free gifts is a policy decision of political parties. The court can frame guidelines for political parties. The Election Commission cannot implement it.
The Election Commission, in its reply, told the Supreme Court whether such policies are economically sound or adversely affect the economic health of the state is a question that the voters of the state have to determine. In January, the top court had issued notices to the Centre and the Election Commission, seeking their response on the plea within four weeks. The top court had expressed concern over political parties promising free gifts to voters. The Supreme Court had termed it a serious issue and said it had an impact on the regular budget.
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