I had read about this in the past but just saw this great write up as a comment on a rediff article (http://specials.rediff.com/news/2008/nov/30sld1-landmarks-at-dusk.htm). In the light of the recent attacks and a dysfunctional government, it becomes even more important to exercise our franchise: to vote!
Did you know that there is a system in our constitution, as per the 1969 act, in section “49-O” that a person can go to the polling booth, confirm his identity, get his finger marked and convey the presiding election officer that he doesn’t want to vote anyone!
Yes such a feature is available, but obviously these seemingly notorious leaders have never disclosed it. This is called “49-O”.
Why should you go and say “I VOTE NOBODY”… because, in a ward, if a candidate wins, say by 123 votes, and that particular ward has received “49-O” votes more than 123, then that polling will be canceled and will have to be re-polled. Not only that, but the candidature of the contestants will be removed and they cannot contest the re-polling, since people had already expressed their decision on them. This would bring fear into parties and hence look for genuine candidates for their parties for election. This would change the way of our whole political system… it is seemingly surprising why the election commission has not revealed such a law to the public….
Please spread this news to as many as you know… Seems to be a wonderful weapon against corrupt parties in India … show your power, expressing your desire not to vote for anybody, is even more powerful than voting… so don’t miss your chance. So either vote, or vote not to vote (vote 49-O) and pass this info on…
Use your voting right for a better INDIA .
Update: You can read all election rules at http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/ElectoralLaws/electoral_law.asp . This particular law (49-O) can be found at page 147 of http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/ElectoralLaws/HandBooks/MANUAL_OF_LAW_VOL_II.pdf. I did not read the whole document and still need to find the reference to cancellation of candidature because of 49-O.