The apex court in its July 2013 verdict had observed

that "although the law is obvious that promises made in an election manifesto cannot be construed as a 'corrupt practice' under section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, the reality is that distribution of freebies of any kind undoubtedly influences all people and it affects the level-playing field".

Alleging that ECI has "no desire" to comply with the apex court's verdict, the plea has sought "quashing/modifying of ECI's recent guidelines on election manifesto as the same is in contravention of directions under Article 142 of Constitution of India".

The plea alleged that promise and distribution of freebies amounts to "corrupt practice" and nowadays all political parties are adopting these type of tactics for winning elections.

It said that the political parties are utilising public money for their political benefits, which vitiates free and fair elections.

The plea said that the government raises funds through taxation and the said money can be used by the state only in discharge of public duties.

(This article has not been edited by DNA's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)