Question

Consider the following statements:

1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.

2. In 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies.

3. As per the existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies. his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 2 and 3

Answer 1

(b) 2 only

As per Section 33(7) of the Representation of Peoples act, 1951, one candidate can contest from a maximum of two constituencies (more constituencies were allowed until 1996 when the RPA was amended to set the cap at two constituencies). 

Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

In 1991, Haryana deputy chief minister Devi Lal contested three Lok Sabha seats Sikar, Rohtak and Ferozepur - as well as the Ghirai assembly seat. He lost them all. 

Hence, statement 2 is correct.

The costs of the by-elections in such cases are borne by the Election Commission Of India. 

Hence, statement 3 is not correct.