One candidate, one seat — Election Commission's proposal to Law Ministry

Currently, a candidate can contest from two seats under Section 33 (7) of the RP's Act. Till 1994, a candidate could even contest from three seats.

As per the 2004 proposal, the ECI had said if a candidate wins from both the contested seat, then he/she has to vacate one of the seats. The winning candidate should deposit a specified amount in the government's account for conducting a bypoll on the seat.

Justifying the proposal, the EC said that it will also lessen the burden of bypoll expense on the government's account. Also, the voters' turnout in byelection is lesser as compared to the election that was held a few days ago.

While 33(7) allows candidates to contest from two seats, Section 70 bars candidates from representing two constituencies in the Lok Sabha or state Assembly.

It is an act to provide for the conduct of elections of the Parliament and state assemblies, the qualifications and disqualifications for membership of those Houses, the corrupt practices and other offences at or in connection with such elections and the decision of doubts and disputes arising out of or in connection with such elections.