Question

What is election manifesto?What purpose does it serve?

Answer 1

Answer:

An Election Manifesto is a formal statement of the programmes and objectives of a political party. It deals with various issues like Centre-State relations, judicial reforms, social justice, health, education, defence, world peace, economic growth, etc. It also contains the promises made by the party for sections of society.

Explanation:

“Although, the law is obvious that the promises in the election manifesto cannot be construed as ‘corrupt practice’ under Section 123 of RP Act, the reality cannot be ruled out that distribution of freebies of any kind, undoubtedly, influences all people. It shakes the root of free and fair elections to a large degree”.

“The Election Commission, in order to ensure level playing field between the contesting parties and candidates in elections and also in order to see that the purity of the election process does not get vitiated, as in past been issuing instructions under the Model Code of Conduct”.

“We are mindful of the fact that generally political parties release their election manifesto before the announcement of election date, in that scenario, strictly speaking, the Election Commission will not have the authority to regulate any act which is done before the announcement of the date. Nevertheless, an exception can be made in this regard as the purpose of election manifesto is directly associated with the election process”.

In the light of aforesaid observations of the Hon”ble Supreme Court, it is important to recognize the public perception of the electorate in this country to promises of freebies.