Meghalaya CEO issues notices to 4 political parties, delisting likely over poll absence

Shillong, August 21: Meghalaya Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has issued show-cause notices to four registered political parties in the state, including the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM), for failing to contest any election since 2019.

CEO BDR Tiwari, on Thursday, said notices have also been served to Meghalaya Democratic Party (MDP), North East Social Democratic Party (NESDP) and the Regional Democratic Secular Congress (RDSC).

The parties have been asked to submit their explanations in writing, along with affidavits, constitutions and other relevant documents, by September 3.

They have also been directed to appear in person before the Commission on the same date, he said.

"If they fail to comply, necessary action, including deregistration of the parties, will be taken without further notice," Tiwari added.

The action follows a review that found the four parties had not fielded any candidates in Assembly or Lok Sabha polls over the past six years.

On August 11, the Election Commission of India (EC) began proceedings to delist 476 registered unrecognised political parties (RUPPs) for failing to meet mandatory norms, including contesting at least one election in the past six years.

The move came a day after the poll panel had already delisted 334 such parties for violating electoral laws and related rules.

Most of the RUPPs now facing delisting are from Uttar Pradesh (121), followed by Maharashtra (44), Tamil Nadu (42) and Delhi (41). Fifteen have been identified in Bihar, which goes to polls later this year.

Since 2001, the EC has weeded out defunct RUPPs “three to four” times, officials said.

PTI