Election Commission Clarifies Protocol for Political Party Meetings, Terms Rahul Gandhi-led Delegation Proposal Unusual
The Election Commission of India has emphasized that established protocols for meeting political parties must be followed, noting that no party requested an appointment before 4 PM on the day in question.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has clarified its position regarding the protocol for meetings with political delegations. The Commission stated that during marches conducted by some political parties during the day on October 6, it received information via the media that some Members of Parliament (MPs) wished to meet the Commission with their delegation. However, the Commission clarified that no political party had requested an appointment through their representatives by 4 PM that day.
According to the Commission, information was received from the Delhi Police around 4 PM stating that a delegation of MPs, led by the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Rahul Gandhi, wished to meet the Commission and submit a memorandum. The Election Commission noted that a procedure for meetings with political parties had been established for the year 2025, and all parties had been informed of this process. Under this procedure, any party or joint delegation must request an appointment through their Authorised Representative, after which a meeting is scheduled by mutual consent.
The Commission further revealed that while it was considering the proposal for the MPs' visit, the DCP of the Delhi Police informed them that the meeting was proposed to take place at the Parliament House 'Annexe' with a group of 240 MPs. The Election Commission rejected this request, deeming it unusual, as protocol dictates that such meetings must take place within the premises of the Election Commission of India.
In an unprecedented move, the ECI had proposed sending its most senior working officer to the meeting venue to accept the MPs' memorandum. However, the MPs rejected this proposal as well. The Election Commission reiterated its respect for the country's parliamentary and democratic processes, as well as its own protocols and traditions. The Commission clarified that any political party may request a meeting at any time, and the Commission will schedule a date and time based on availability.
