The Election Commission of India (ECI) has delisted 474 Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) in the second phase of its ongoing cleanup drive, citing failure to contest elections for six consecutive years.

With this, the total number of parties removed from the register since August 2025 has risen to 808. In the first phase, conducted on August 9, the Commission had delisted 334 RUPPs.

“On September 18, 2025, 474 RUPPs were delisted for non-contestation over six years. Combined with the first phase, 808 RUPPs have now been delisted in two months,” the ECI said in a press note.

States Hit Hardest

The latest delisting saw the highest number of removals from Uttar Pradesh (121), followed by Maharashtra (44), Tamil Nadu (42), and Delhi (40). Other states with significant numbers include Punjab (21), Madhya Pradesh (23), Bihar (15), and Andhra Pradesh (17).

Action Against 359 More Parties

Alongside the delistings, the Commission has initiated action against 359 RUPPs across 23 states and Union Territories for failing to submit mandatory financial documents. These include annual audited accounts for three consecutive years (2021–22 to 2023–24) and election expenditure reports despite having contested polls.

The bulk of these non-compliant parties are concentrated in Uttar Pradesh (127), Delhi (41), and Tamil Nadu (39).

Show-Cause Notices

The ECI has directed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to issue show-cause notices to the defaulting organisations. Hearings will be conducted before any final decision on their delisting is taken.

“To ensure no party is unduly delisted, CEOs will issue notices and grant hearings. The ECI will take the final call based on their reports,” the Commission clarified.

Under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, registered political parties enjoy privileges such as election symbols and tax exemptions. However, guidelines mandate removal if they fail to contest elections for six continuous years.