Briefly explain the procedure laid down in the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1951 for the registration of political parties with the Election Commission of India (ECI). What are Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs)? What concerns are associated with them? Does the ECI have powers to de-register a political party?

RPA 1951 acts as the foundational legislation for conducting elections democratically. Powers of Courts → manner of election → political parties → registration of parties [Features of RPA 1951] A) Procedure for registration with ECI (1) Political parties need to file application for registration (2) Criteria for state & national party is delineated based on various parameters like percentage of votes seats, etc

B) Registered Unrecognised Political Party (1) There are registered with ECI but not recognised by ECI (2) They don't file returns with ECI C) Concerns (1) Non filing of returns (2) used for money laundering & donations & non reporting → Finance Act 2017, exempted D) ECI's figures (1) RPA 1951 doesn't define powers to deregister a political party (2) As various recommendations have been given by ECI Law Commission & Dinesh Goswami Committee → expands entrust powers → ECI Hence, there is a need to amend RPA'51 and entrust ECI with RUPs to ensure a fair & stable delivery

— SUVAN SHARMA · AIR 148