In a significant move, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to release key electoral materials from the recent Haryana assembly elections. This includes videography, CCTV footage, and crucial polling documents tied to a specific polling station. The directive came following a petition seeking access to these materials.
Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj, presiding over the matter, mandated that the documents be made available within six weeks of a formal application and payment of requisite charges by the petitioner. The Court emphasized compliance with the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, allowing access to all permissible documents while respecting statutory restrictions.
The petitioner sought access to materials such as Forms 17-C Parts I and II, arguing that the rules distinguish between candidates and the general public only in terms of costs. While candidates receive these materials free of charge, others can obtain them upon payment. The Court acknowledged the petitioner’s readiness to pay the prescribed fees and ruled in favor of document release.
The Election Commission had contested the plea, highlighting the petitioner’s lack of direct involvement in the Haryana elections. However, the Court concluded that the rules allowed for such access irrespective of the petitioner’s residency or candidacy.
This ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to transparency in electoral processes, ensuring fair access to information for those who seek it within the framework of the law.
