Election Commission

The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Union Government and ECI regarding a PIL that seeks stricter rules for political parties. The court will examine if legislative action is required to “ensure transparency, curb criminal influence, and enforce secularism in politics”. This move addresses the increasing opacity in party financing and the criminalization of politics, pushing for greater accountability in democratic governance.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has appointed a Returning Officer for the Vice-Presidential Election, 2025, formally commencing the electoral process. Governed by Articles 63-71 of the Constitution and the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952, this indirect election involves an electoral college of both elected and nominated members of Parliament. The Returning Officer oversees nominations, scrutiny, polling, and vote counting.