MCQs Based On Political Science- (164)

Correct Option: 3. 1998.
Explanation: EVMs were introduced in 1989 legally, but first used experimentally in 1998 in state assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi.

Correct Option: 2. Up to 6 months imprisonment or ₹2,000 fine or both.
Explanation: Electoral reforms prohibit liquor sales 48 hours before polling in the area, to ensure fair voting conditions. Violation attracts legal penalties.

Correct Option: 2. Dinesh Goswami Committee.
Explanation: The 1990 committee suggested classifying candidates on ballots by party recognition status. This was implemented in 1996 to simplify voting.
Dinesh Goswami Committee on Electoral Reforms (1990)
The Dinesh Goswami Committee was a significant official effort to review and suggest improvements in India’s electoral system.
Background:
Appointed by: National Front Government (headed by V.P. Singh)
Year: 1990
Chairman: Dinesh Goswami, then Union Law Minister
Objective: To suggest comprehensive electoral reforms to ensure free and fair elections and improve public trust in democracy.
Key Recommendations of the Committee:
1. Electoral Process
Use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs): Recommended legal backing to introduce EVMs (though implemented later).
Lowering of Voting Age: Supported reducing the voting age from 21 to 18 (implemented via 61st Amendment in 1988).
Avoidance of Bye-elections: Suggested no bye-election if the term left is less than a year.
2. Political Parties
State Funding of Elections: Supported partial state funding of elections, especially for recognized political parties.
Internal Democracy: Urged political parties to maintain democratic functioning and transparency in candidate selection.
3. Criminalisation of Politics
Recommended disqualification of candidates with serious criminal charges (especially after framing of charges, not just conviction).
4. Election Campaign & Expenditure
-Strict ceiling on campaign expenditure.
-Recommended monitoring and auditing of party finances.
-Suggested ban on religious or caste-based appeals during campaigns.
5. Electoral Administration
-Suggested strengthening the Election Commission’s autonomy and powers.
-Recommended deputation of staff to EC for electoral duties under its full control (implemented in 1988).
Reforms Implemented from Its Recommendations (in 1996):
Many recommendations were implemented through the Electoral Reforms of 1996, including:
-Listing of candidates in 3 categories (recognized party, unrecognized, independent)
-Disqualification under National Honour Act
-Prohibition on liquor sales 48 hours before polling
-Paid holiday for voters on polling day
-Prohibition of arms near polling booths
-Limiting candidates to contest from only two constituencies
Significance:
-It laid the groundwork for later reforms, including those by Law Commission and Election Commission.
-Brought the issue of electoral reforms into national focus, especially related to money power and criminalization.

Correct Option: 2. 6 months.
Explanation: By-elections must be held within six months of a vacancy unless the remainder of the term is less than a year or special exemption is granted.

Correct Option: 3. Law Commission of India.
Explanation: The Law Commission issued these detailed reports in 2014 (244th) and 2015 (255th), addressing disqualifications and major reforms in electoral laws.