Candidates must disclose criminal cases on media platforms as per Election Commission rules: District Election Officer Dr. Harish Kumar Vashisht

Dr. Harish Kumar Vashisht mandates that Haryana Assembly election candidates publicly disclose any criminal cases against them within four days. Political parties must also publish these disclosures on their websites and through various media channels. Non-compliance could lead to nomination cancellation.

Palwal, 17 September 2024– In a significant move towards enhancing transparency in the electoral process, District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Harish Kumar Vashisht has announced that candidates contesting the Haryana Assembly elections are now required to publicly disclose any criminal cases registered against them. This directive is in line with the Election Commission of India’s stringent rules aimed at ensuring an informed electorate and promoting integrity in the political landscape. Dr. Vashisht emphasized that candidates with pending criminal cases must adhere to a strict timeline for disclosure. Specifically, these candidates are required to make their criminal cases public within four days of their nomination. This disclosure must be made through prominent media channels, including national and local newspapers, as well as on social media platforms.

In addition to individual disclosures, political parties are also mandated to publish any criminal cases against their candidates. This information must be prominently displayed on the party’s official website. The guidelines stipulate that this publication must occur three times during the election campaign period—initially within 48 hours of the candidate’s selection, followed by two additional publications throughout the campaign.
Furthermore, the political party is obligated to submit a compliance report to the Election Commission within 72 hours of the candidate’s selection. This report must detail the publication of the criminal case disclosures and confirm adherence to the prescribed guidelines. The mandate extends beyond just initial disclosures. Candidates with criminal cases must also ensure that their criminal case details are published in newspapers, on social media, and on the party’s website throughout the campaign period. This requirement aims to provide voters with comprehensive and updated information regarding the legal backgrounds of those vying for public office.

Failure to comply with these disclosure requirements may lead to severe consequences, including the potential cancellation of the candidate’s nomination. Dr. Vashisht urged voters to carefully review these disclosures to make informed decisions at the polls.

For further details and comprehensive guidelines, voters and candidates alike are encouraged to visit the Election Commission’s official website, which offers extensive information on the new disclosure requirements and other electoral regulations.