Explain the role of Election Commission in the 'registration and recognition' of political parties inIndia

The Election Commission of India plays a crucial role in the registration and recognition of political parties in India. Here's a step-by-step explanation of the process:

1. Registration: Any association or body of individual citizens of India calling itself a political party and intending to avail itself of the provisions of Part-IVA of the 'Representation of the People Act, 1951', must make an application to the Election Commission for its registration as a political party. The application must be in conformity with the provisions of Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

2. Verification: Upon receiving the application, the Election Commission verifies the details provided. It checks whether the party has availed itself of the provisions of Part-IVA of the 'Representation of the People Act, 1951' and whether the application conforms to the provisions of Section 29A.

3. Recognition: After the verification process, if the Election Commission is satisfied that the party has fulfilled all the prescribed conditions, it registers the party as a political party. If the party is able to secure a certain percentage of votes (as prescribed by the Election Commission) in the state or national elections, it is recognized as a State Party or National Party respectively.

4. Symbol Allotment: Once a party is recognized, it is allotted a symbol which is used by the party's candidates in elections. This symbol becomes the identity of the party in electoral politics.

5. Monitoring: The Election Commission also monitors the financial transactions of the political parties. It ensures that the parties do not violate the guidelines laid down by it regarding the collection and expenditure of funds.

6. Disqualification: If a party violates any of the guidelines or rules set by the Election Commission, it has the power to de-recognize or disqualify the party.

In this way, the Election Commission plays a pivotal role in the democratic process of India by regulating the registration and recognition of political parties.