What changes did the government make in the election rules on which Congress is raising questions, will give legal challenge

New Delhi : The central government has changed the election rules. Under this, public inspection of some electronic documents like CCTV cameras and webcasting footage, video recordings of candidates has been stopped, so that their misuse can be prevented. Based on the recommendation of the Election Commission (EC), the Union Law Ministry has amended Rule 93 of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 to restrict the type of ‘papers’ or documents kept for public inspection. However, this rule Protests have also started regarding the amendment. Congress has criticized the Election Commission for amending the rules. The party’s move to amend the rules related to electronic documents will be legally challenged.

Court case behind the amendment

According to Rule 93, all ‘papers’ relating to the election shall be kept for public inspection. In the amendment, the words ‘as specified in these rules’ have been added after ‘papers’. Law Ministry and Election Commission officials separately said there was a court case behind the amendment.
An Election Commission official said that there are many instances where such electronic records have been sought citing rules. The amendment ensures that only the documents mentioned in the rules will be available for public inspection and any other document which has no reference in the rules will not be allowed for public inspection.

Congress will challenge the amendment legally

Congress on Saturday targeted the Election Commission over changes in rules to prevent public inspection of some electronic documents. The party said that its move will soon be challenged legally. Party General Secretary Jairam also asked the question why is the Commission so afraid of transparency?

Ramesh said in a post on According to him/her, transparency and openness are most helpful in exposing and eliminating corruption and unethical practices. The information also restores confidence in the process.