EC finalises 120 symbols for parliamentary election, suspends ‘Boat’

The Election Commission (EC) has amended the Election Conduct Rules, 2008, finalising 120 electoral symbols for the parliamentary election while keeping the ‘Boat’ symbol suspended.

The revised rules also introduce a ‘No’ symbol for constituencies where only one candidate is contesting.

The EC issued the gazette notification from its secretariat on Wednesday (September 16), exercising powers under Article 94 of the Representation of the People Order, 1972.

Under the amended Rule 9(1), returning officers will allocate available symbols from the prescribed list, excluding those marked as suspended.

The list retains several familiar political symbols, including the Paddy Sheaf, Plough, Scales, Rising Sun and Hand Fan, alongside symbols such as pineapple, apple, mango, eagle, truck, bicycle, rocket, rickshaw, book, football, mobile phone, lion, elephant, helicopter and handshake.

The newly added ‘No’ symbol will allow voters to cast a ballot even when there is only one candidate in a constituency.

The amendments also introduce changes to election-related financial and nomination procedures. Candidates may use the bank account of their designated election agent, in addition to their own account, for election expenditure, with corresponding changes made to the prescribed nomination form.

The EC has also made income-tax information relating to candidates’ spouses, children and other dependants optional in affidavits. In addition, it has clarified that the term “accused” refers to a defendant against whom a court has formally framed charges.

The revised rules will govern the allocation of symbols and related procedures for the upcoming parliamentary election.