Which of the following allots a symbol to political parties?

The correct answer is Election Commission.

Key Points

• The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for the allotment of symbols to political parties.
• It operates under the authority of the Constitution per Article 324, ensuring free and fair elections.
• The ECI allocates symbols to both national and state-level parties, ensuring a unique identity for each.
• Symbols are crucial for voters, particularly those who are illiterate, enabling them to identify their preferred party or candidate easily.

Additional Information

• Election Commission of India (ECI)
  • Established on 25th January 1950, ECI is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes in India.
  • ECI ensures the conduct of free and fair elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice President in India.
  • The Chief Election Commissioner and two other Election Commissioners head the ECI.
• Model Code of Conduct
  • The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the ECI for conduct of political parties and candidates during elections.
  • Its purpose is to ensure free and fair elections and to maintain a level playing field for all parties.
  • It comes into effect from the date of announcement of the election schedule and remains in force until the election process is completed.
• National and State Parties
  • Political parties in India are classified as National or State parties based on their performance in elections.
  • National parties have a broader influence and recognition across the country, while State parties have significant influence in particular states.
  • Recognition as a National or State party entitles the party to certain privileges, such as reserved party symbols.