Quasi-Judicial Powers of the Election Commission: Resolving Party Symbol Disputes under Paragraph 15

This process is highly significant for democratic governance. It ensures that political parties—which form the bedrock of India's representative democracy—remain accountable to their internal democratic structures. The ECI's decisions in such matters are quasi-judicial, meaning they are subject to judicial review by the Supreme Court of India. Over the years, landmark judgments, such as the Sadiq Ali v. Election Commission of India (1972), have upheld the ECI's use of the "test of majority" in resolving such disputes. For governance and policy, this mechanism prevents chaotic splits from destabilizing legislative bodies and ensures clarity for the electorate. It also reinforces the rule of law, demonstrating how independent constitutional bodies maintain political stability and democratic integrity. UPSC Relevance: This issue is highly relevant for GS Paper II, particularly under the topics of constitutional/quasi-judicial bodies and the Representation of the People Act. Candidates can use this case study to illustrate the ECI's dispute-resolution powers under the Symbols Order, 1968, and discuss the "test of majority" in questions related to internal party democracy and electoral reforms.