🗳️ Introduction
Understanding nomination scrutiny in Indian elections is essential to ensuring fair and lawful candidatures. It’s the legal checkpoint where election authorities, primarily the Returning Officer, verify whether a candidate complies with eligibility and documentation standards under the Representation of the People Act.
📜 Legal Framework Behind Nomination Scrutiny in Indian Elections
Key statutes and provisions include:
- Representation of the People Act, 1951: Lays down criteria for candidature, disqualification, and scrutiny
- Articles 324–329 of the Indian Constitution: Empower the Election Commission to supervise elections
- Conduct of Election Rules, 1961: Detail nomination procedures and verification steps
👉 Explore Representation of the People Act (official link)
🔍 What Happens During Nomination Scrutiny
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Filing of Nomination | Candidate submits nomination paper and affidavit |
| Document Verification | RO examines identity, criminal history, and asset disclosures |
| Objection Handling | Any objections must be raised before scrutiny ends |
| Acceptance/Rejection | RO accepts or rejects nominations based on compliance |
Nomination scrutiny is governed by Rule 6 & Rule 7 of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, and must occur the day after nomination filing ends.
⚖️ Grounds for Rejection of Nomination
- Incomplete or incorrect affidavit information
- Non-submission of required documents (e.g., security deposit, voter certification)
- Candidate disqualified under Sections 8 & 9 of RP Act (e.g., criminal conviction, corrupt practices)
- Dual entries in electoral rolls (see Uttarakhand HC electoral roll ruling)
💬 Vakilify Insight
Nomination scrutiny isn’t just clerical—it’s legal filtration to ensure fair representation. Knowing how documents are assessed and objections handled gives candidates and voters alike a stronger grasp of electoral safeguards.
