Report No. 255

(ii) Amendment to the RPA

7.32.1. The Sub-committee has recommended an amendment to the RPA, to provide therein that publishing and abetting the publishing of paid news for furthering the prospect of election of any candidate or for prejudicially affecting the prospect of election of any candidate be made an electoral offence under chapter-III of Part-VII of the RP Act with punishment of a minimum of two years imprisonment. The issue is pending with the Government of India.281

281. Sub-Committee's letter No. 3/ 1/2011/SDR dated 3rd February 2011 40-43 regarding proposals for amendment of the R.P. Act and Conduct of Election Rules 1961

7.32.2. It also suggested that the act of publishing a news item in exchange for consideration should be included as a 'corrupt practice' under Section 123 of the RPA. Further, it should be made an electoral offence separately, so that it not only disqualifies the candidates, but also subjects them, the journalists and media-houses to penal consequences.

7.32.3. Furthermore, Section 127A of the RPA may be suitably amended, adding a new sub-section to the effect that in the case of any advertisements/election matter for or against any political party or candidate in print media, during the election period, the name and address of the publisher should be given along with the matter/advertisement.