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?

-> 1. Political parties with an association of people willing to contest election must register. -> 2. Provide party Constitution to showcase ideology and functioning. -> 3. Choice of political symbols to contest election.

Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPP)

These political parties are registered with the Election Commission of India.

• However, they don't have a proper symbol or alleged bifurcation of pre-existing political parties. This can be due to • issue of internal party conflict [Eg. Shiv Sena broke into 2 factions: one under Uddhav Balasaheb Thackrey, other under Eknath Shinde.

Concerns associated

1. This leads to political ambiguity. -> Issue of differing ideology.

2. Lead to political unrest due to defection.

3. Threat to public trust as the public votes a particular candidate based on his/her liking for political party.

4. Poor awareness leads to manipulation of voter for political gain.

ECI's role in deregistering a party

1. ECI cannot deregister a party.
2. However, if 2/3rd strength of a party leaves the main group, it doesn't lead to defection, rather party split.
3. Role of party members in [mergers]