Bailabel Type : bailable

Description

Introduction

Elections must be conducted fairly and transparently, with proper financial accountability. Election laws require candidates to maintain detailed records of their expenses to prevent corruption, bribery, and illegal funding.

Section 171I IPC penalizes candidates who fail to maintain or disclose their election expenses as required by law, ensuring financial transparency in elections.

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Key Elements of Failure to Keep Election Accounts Under Section 171I IPC

1. The Person Must Be Legally Required to Maintain Election Accounts –

   • The law applies to candidates contesting elections who are mandated to record and submit their election expenses.

2. Failure to Maintain or Produce Election Accounts –

   • The candidate must have neglected, refused, or failed to keep proper accounts of election expenses.

3. The Requirement Must Be Under Election Laws –

   • The failure must violate the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, or other election rules.

For example, if a candidate spends money on rallies, posters, and advertisements but does not record or report these expenses, they can be punished under Section 171I IPC.

Punishment

Punishment Under Section 171I IPC

• Fine (No imprisonment is prescribed)

This ensures that candidates who fail to maintain election accounts face financial penalties without imprisonment for minor violations.