Corrupt practices

Polity & Governance glossary

Also called: Section 123 of the RPA 1951 · Topic: Elections and the Electoral System · NCERT: Class 9, Ch 7 "Elections"

Meaning

Corrupt practices are the dishonest election acts listed in Section 123 of the RPA 1951. They include:

  • bribery (giving gifts or money to win votes);
  • undue influence (pressure or threats on voters);
  • appeals for votes on grounds of religion, race, caste, community or language;
  • taking help from government servants;
  • booth capturing.

If a court proves a corrupt practice in an election petition, it can cancel the candidate's election. The candidate can also be disqualified.

Example

In 1975, Raj Narain filed an election petition against Indira Gandhi. The Allahabad High Court set aside her election because it found she had committed corrupt practices, including taking help from a government official.

Don't confuse with

  • Electoral offences: These are crimes punished with a fine or jail, under ss.125-136 of the RPA 1951 and the BNS 2023. A corrupt practice mainly costs a candidate the seat and their eligibility to contest, and it is decided in an election petition.

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