EC seeks poll reforms

New Delhi Feb 11: The Election Commission of India has Sought power to ban the politicians from contesting polls if charges are framed in cases punishable by at least five years in jail. EC urged Supreme Court to direct the Centre to amend the law in this regard.

The Commission proposed that "the law be amended to provide that any person who is accused of an offense punishable by imprisonment for five years or more should be disqualified from contesting elections even while trial is pending, provided charges have been framed against him by the competent court. The Commission reiterates that such a step would go a long way in cleansing the political establishment from the influence of criminal elements and protecting the sanctity of the legislative houses."

The Affidavit has also stated that "Parliament should pass an amendment in law to empower it to frame guidelines to ensure transparency in parties and to promote financial and electoral accountability and democratic functioning."