Delhi HC directs rival PMK factions to approach competent civil court to settle internal disputes

Why in news

The Delhi High Court ruled that the Election Commission of India (ECI) lacks the authority to resolve internal disputes within an unrecognised political party, directing the PMK factions to civil courts.

Background

The Delhi High Court clarified that the ECI's jurisdiction over internal party disputes is limited to recognised political parties. The court cited Clause 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, as the governing provision.

Facts for Prelims

• BodyECI: The body responsible for overseeing elections and managing political party recognition in India
• Act / BillElection Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968: Order governing the allotment of symbols to political parties
• FactClause 15 of the 1968 Order: Specifically empowers ECI to resolve disputes only within recognised parties

For Mains

Q. Discuss the significance of political party recognition in India and the legal implications of the ECI's jurisdiction over internal party disputes.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Jurisdictional clarity: Distinction between ECI's regulatory role and civil court's adjudicatory role in private entity disputes
• Democratic integrity: Ensuring internal party democracy is protected from arbitrary administrative interference
• Legal ambiguity: Challenges in defining 'recognised' status for parties seeking symbol protection

Keywords: Jurisdictional competence · Political party recognition · Administrative law · Election Commission of India · Internal party democracy

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