How many seats can a candidate contest?
A sub-section, 33 (7), of the RPA, allowing a candidate to contest from two seats.
It was introduced through an amendment in 1996.
It prior to which there was no bar on the number of constituencies from which a candidate could contest.
However, Section 70 of the same Act stipulates that a candidate can hold only one seat at a time.
Regardless of whether he or she has been elected from more than one seat.
Thus, if a candidate wins from two seats, a byelection is necessary from the seat he or she vacates.
Former Chief Election Commissioner N. Gopalaswami said the opposition to a candidate contesting from many seats was basically due to the fact that many by elections had to be conducted after polls were over.
When were the guidelines amended?
According to the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1951.
A candidate is permitted to contest an election from up to two constituencies.
But he or she can hold only one seat at a time if elected from both.
How can a candidate be disqualified?
A person shall be disqualified from being chosen as or being a member of either House if he holds any office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State.
If he or she is of unsound mind and stands so declared by a competent court.
If he or she is an undischarged insolvent.
If he or she is not a citizen of India or has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of a foreign state.
Under the RPA Act, if a person is convicted of any offence and sentenced to an imprisonment of two years or more.
This will lead to his disqualification to contest elections.
Even if this person is out on bail, after the conviction and his appeal is pending for disposal.
He or she is disqualified from contesting an election.
For some categories of serious offences, one may incur disqualification for any conviction, regardless of the quantum of punishment.
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