Election disputes are inherent, should not be perceived as reflection of weakness: CEC

Asserting that elections remain a fundamental condition for democratic legitimacy, Chief Election Commissioner Dr. Nasim Zaidi on Saturday said election disputes are inherent to election and this should not be perceived as reflection of weakness, but as strength.

"Election disputes are inherent to election and this should not be perceived as reflection of weakness, but as strength. The increase in variety and number of election-related disputes should be seen as an increase in public understanding of the redressal process, said Dr. Zaidi, who was addressing a conference on 'Strategic Vision for Management of Election Litigation'.

Stating that the electoral reform is an important area that needs to be addressed in a systematic manner, the CEC said, "The main objects of the Commission are to strengthen electoral democracy and to promote democratic electoral processes."

Welcoming the legal luminaries, counsels and CEO's, Dr Zaidi said, "It is an opportune time to renew contacts and discuss problems of mutual interest with delegates from various states and regions to engage an open and constructive dialogue."

"The aim of the conference is to discuss the proposed election reforms, new developments occurring in election dispute and issues faced by counsels in dealing with matters pertaining to election disputes," Dr. Zaidi added.

The CEC further said the ECI is, in true sense, an independent and autonomous constitutional body, which is totally insulated from any external influences.

On the occasion, Dr. Zaidi also released 47 proposals of the ECI for law making, which have also been examined by the Law Commission.

He said the important proposals included the recommendations pertaining to decriminalisation of politics, prevention of abuse of money, transparency, making bribery a cognisable offence, criminalising paid news, empowering ECI to countermand election in cases of bribery and abuse on the lines of countermanding in event of booth

He further said the ECI and the Law Commission recommendations are being scrutinised by a task force in the Law Ministry and the outcome is eagerly awaited.

Dr. Zaidi said the ECI is keen to reduce electoral litigation by drafting instruction very meticulously, which are conformity with law.

He further said proper training has been given to the officials to execute laws and the ECI's instructions in the most judicious and fair manner.

Encouraging legal luminaries, counsels and CEOs to work cooperatively, Zaidi concluded, "In the spirit of true cooperation, we must join together in an action-oriented effort to resolve the problems impeding our democratic goals.