EC tightens screws on funding, seeks disclosure of expenses

New Delhi

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed all political parties to strictly adhere to deadlines for submitting election expenditure details, reinforcing transparency norms amid ongoing and upcoming elections across several states and Union Territories. The Commission has specifically asked parties to provide complete information on funds, donations and lump-sum amounts distributed to candidates during elections.

In a communication sent to presidents and general secretaries of national parties, state-recognised parties and registered unrecognised political parties (RUPPs), the ECI reiterated that accurate financial disclosure is mandatory. It cautioned that any mismatch or irregularity in the submitted data could invite action under existing legal provisions.

The Commission referred to the reporting framework first introduced in 2001 in compliance with Supreme Court directions, which has been updated multiple times, including revisions in 2004, 2009, 2013 and 2022. Under these rules, political parties must file a detailed account of their election expenses within 75 to 90 days after the completion of each Lok Sabha or assembly election.

Recognised national and state parties are required to submit their reports directly to the ECI, while RUPPs must file their returns with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state where their headquarters are located. In addition, parties must submit a partial expenditure statement within 30 days of the conclusion of elections, detailing all financial support extended to candidates. This provision has been in force since September 2015 under the Commission’s constitutional authority.

Highlighting concerns over compliance, the ECI noted that several previously submitted accounts lacked proper reconciliation, suggesting gaps in adherence to guidelines. It stressed that financial disclosures by parties must match the expenditure statements filed by candidates with district election officers under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Any discrepancy between the two could lead to action under Rule 89(5) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.

The Commission has also instructed Chief Electoral Officers across states and Union Territories to ensure that political parties in their jurisdictions are informed about these requirements and comply within the stipulated timelines.