EC firm on debarring criminals from polls

The Election Commission will not reconsider its decision on debarring candidates with criminal records from contesting elections.

Ignoring the views of Lok Sabha Speaker Purno A Sangma and Home Minister Indrajit Gupta who have questioned the legality of the decision, the Commission will strictly apply the rule from the next election.

Sources said returning officers have been empowered to reject criminals's nomination papers under Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

If anyone is against the move, s/he is free to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court, the sources said.

The Commission, they said, had taken note of the Speaker and home minister's criticism as well as several experts's appreciation of the decision.

UNI

EARLIER REPORT:
Criminals can't stand for elections: EC