New Delhi, Aug 10: The Election Commission (EC) on Saturday announced the removal of 334 registered unrecognised political parties (RUPPs) from its list, citing their failure to contest elections for more than six years and non-compliance with mandatory disclosure requirements under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
“These parties could not be physically located, and their non-participation violates the norms set by the Commission,” the EC said in an official statement.
The 334 parties represented various states and union territories across the country. After this clean-up, the total number of RUPPs stands reduced from 2,854 to 2,520. Currently, India has six national parties and 67 state parties recognized by the EC.
Under the rules, registered parties are required to contest elections at least once every six years and must promptly notify the Commission of any changes related to their name, address, or office-bearers.
In June 2025, the EC instructed the chief electoral officers (CEOs) of states and union territories to verify the status of 345 RUPPs. The CEOs conducted detailed inquiries, issued show-cause notices, and held personal hearings to allow the parties to present their cases.
“The verification process revealed that 334 parties were in violation of the prescribed norms,” the Commission noted, adding that the remaining cases were sent back for further review.
Following this, the EC officially delisted the 334 inactive parties, stripping them of all benefits and recognition accorded under its regulations.
This action forms part of the Election Commission’s ongoing effort to strengthen accountability and maintain the integrity of the electoral system by ensuring only compliant political entities remain registered.
