In a recent development from New Delhi, reports indicate that the government has commenced the process of formalizing the schedule for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. This entails forwarding the Election Commission’s proposal to President Droupadui Murmu.
The inaugural announcement is slated for March 20, marking the initiation of the electoral process for the initial phase set on April 19, encompassing 102 constituencies. Notably, the commencement of the nomination phase coincides with the release of the notification. The electoral journey for the 18th Lok Sabha is set to embark on April 19, followed by successive phases scheduled for April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1, as unveiled by the Election Commission’s timetable unveiled over the weekend.
Insiders reveal that in a morning Cabinet session, a proposition was tabled to the President for the issuance of notifications across the various electoral phases. Following protocol, the Election Commission transmits its essential recommendation to the Union Law Ministry to formalize the dates for the Lok Sabha elections. Pursuant to Section 14 (2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Election Commission forwards its suggestion to the government, prompting the President to greenlight the official notification of the electoral schedule. In response to this recommendation, the Law Ministry prepares a comprehensive proposal for the Union Cabinet’s consideration, subsequently advising the President to authorize the release of notifications for the respective phases.
“…the President shall, by one or more notifications published in the Gazette of India on such date or dates as may be recommended by the Election Commission, call upon all Parliamentary constituencies to elect members (of Lok Sabha)…,” stipulates the provision. The Election Commission’s directive regarding notification issuance undergoes the due process via the Union Cabinet, given that the President operates under the counsel and guidance of the Union Council of Ministers.