How are symbols allotted to political parties?

GS PAPER 2

(INDIAN POLITY)

What do the rules specify?

A party is designated as either a 'national' or 'state' party by the Election Commission of India based on the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.
The criteria for recognition at the State level consists of :-

(a) winning one Lok Sabha seat for every 25 seats or 3% of Legislative Assembly seats or
(b) winning one Lok Sabha or two Assembly seats along with 6% of votes polled or
(c) securing 8% of votes polled in a general election.

Symbols are allotted to political parties and contesting candidates as per the provisions of the Symbols Order by ECI.
In the largest democracy where a sizeable population is still illiterate, symbols play a crucial role in the voting process. A recognised political party has a reserved symbol that is not allotted to any other candidate in any constituency.
For registered but unrecognised political parties, one of the free symbols is allotted as a common symbol during an election if that party contests in two Lok Sabha constituencies or in 5% of seats to the Assembly of a State as the case may be.

Current Issue: Denial of Common Symbol to VCK

Rules and Eligibility: Rule 10B of the Symbols Order allows registered unrecognised parties to avail a common symbol for two general elections, provided they secure at least 1% of votes polled in the previous election.
Case of NTK and VCK: NTK secured over 1% of votes in the last two elections but applied for their common symbol late, leading to its allotment to another party. VCK was denied a common symbol due to its failure to meet the 1% vote threshold in the 2021 State Legislative Assembly elections.

Way Forward: Suggestions for Reform

Reviewing Rules: While ECI has followed existing rules, there's a need to reconsider them, given the discrepancies observed.
Fair Treatment for Unrecognised Parties: Proposed amendment suggests granting common symbols to unrecognised parties that secure at least 1% of votes in previous elections or have elected representatives, ensuring fairness and strengthening democracy.
Consideration of Past Performance: Emphasizing the importance of past electoral performance in determining eligibility for common symbols.
Enhancing Democratic Process: Aim to ensure that all parties, regardless of recognition status, are treated fairly and given opportunities to participate effectively in the electoral process.