Ahead of PU elections,former CEC admits need for reforms

After students of Panjab University (PU) expressed resentment over guidelines of the Lyngdoh Commission not being in sync with the current times,the former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) J M Lyngdoh,on Tuesday,said there was a need to revise the recommendations

After students of Panjab University (PU) expressed resentment over guidelines of the Lyngdoh Commission not being in sync with the current times,the former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) J M Lyngdoh,on Tuesday,said there was a need to revise the recommendations.

The former CEC was in the university to deliver a lecture and interact with students and faculty members ahead of the elections scheduled in the first week of September.

Talking about the Lyngdoh Commission,he said,These recommendations were given a long time back when our main concern was to prevent criminalization and misuse of money power from entering the student elections. But over the years the need has emerged to revise these guidelines. He added there should be a revision of guidelines after every five years.

Answering a question,Lyngdoh said despite any rules,students of PU still had the freedom to hold direct elections. But considering the strength of students in this varsity,indirect elections would be more suitable. Such kind of system is ideal for student leaders to graduate into more responsible leaders,he said.

Reflecting on the countrys present election process,Lyngdoh said he was against the concept of compulsory voting as it went against democracy. He also advocated proportional representation in elections to curb corruption in politics.

Talking about the revamping of elections in the country,the former CEC said a proper Lokpal should be put in place.

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