Supreme Court to Review Anonymous Political Donations:
The Supreme Court has decided to review a petition challenging the rule that allows political parties to receive anonymous cash donations below Rs 2000, which petitioners say creates a loophole for opaque, untraceable political funding.
- It seeks to end cash donations even up to Rs 2000 allowed under Section 13A(d) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, which enables anonymous contributions, and demands full disclosure of donor details.
- The petition argues that Section 13A(d) violates Article 19(1)(a) by denying citizens their right to information, asserting that voters must know the sources of political funding to make informed choices.
- Directions Sought on Form 24A: The petition seeks a mandamus directing the Election Commission of India (ECI) to scrutinise Form 24A contribution reports and require political parties to deposit contributions lacking address or PAN details.
- It also urges the ECI to suspend or withdraw party symbols under Paragraph 16A of the Election Symbol Order, 1968 by issuing notices to defaulting parties.
- It urges that political parties’ accounts be audited by independent auditors appointed by the ECI, and calls for stronger mechanisms to ensure timely submission of contribution and audit reports.
