BRS and Election Authorities Clarify: Using Old TRS Party Name Not Simple Despite Kavitha's Comments
In a significant development in Telangana's political landscape, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leaders and election authorities have clarified that utilizing the old Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) party name for a newly launched political outfit is not a straightforward process. This statement comes in response to recent comments made by Telangana Jagruthi president Kalvakuntla Kavitha, who suggested last week that the TRS name is free for anyone to use.
Kavitha's Remarks Spark Political Ripples
Kavitha's recent assertion has created notable ripples within BRS circles, fueled by rumors that the Telangana Jagruthi leader might consider adopting TRS as the name for her new party, which is scheduled for formal launch on April 25. Senior BRS leaders have expressed concerns that any such attempt could potentially damage the party's established vote bank, especially given existing challenges with identical election symbols.
The BRS has previously raised objections to symbols such as the roti maker and road roller, which bear resemblance to its own symbol of the 'car'. Additionally, there are other parties like Telangana Rajya Samithi that share similar abbreviations, adding to the complexity of political branding in the state.
Election Commission's Role in Name Approval
According to senior BRS leaders, there are no past instances where the Election Commission of India (ECI) has permitted one political outfit to use another party's former title, even after a name change. "Generally, the ECI will not allow the name of TRS for another party, at least for two consecutive elections. Even after 10 years, it is completely ECI's decision whether or not to allow it," explained a senior BRS leader.
Party leaders also recalled that when TRS officially changed its name to BRS, it had formally requested the ECI to refrain from allotting the previous TRS name to any other outfit or individual registering a new party in the future. Even if a hypothetical 10-year embargo is considered, no party could feasibly request the TRS title for the 2029 elections, as BRS applied for its name change in 2022.
Legal Framework and EC Discretion
Telangana state election authorities have pointed out that while there are no explicit rules barring the use of non-existent or old party names, the final decision rests with the Election Commission of India. Under Section 29A of the Representation of the People's Act, 1951, individuals or groups seeking to launch a new political party must publish the proposed name in two national dailies and two local dailies for two consecutive days. This publication allows for the submission of objections within a 30-day period.
"It is the Election Commission of India that will take a call on the new party's name. The parties that changed their name can also file objections on using their party's old name. Generally, to avoid any confusion among voters or if there is any other valid reason, the ECI will not approve the name and advise the founders of the new party to consider other names," stated an official from the Telangana ECI.
Potential Return to TRS Name for BRS
Interestingly, there have been internal suggestions within the BRS for party president K. Chandrasekhar Rao to consider reverting to the original TRS name following the party's electoral setback in the December 2023 assembly elections. Some party members argue that the current BRS name lacks the regional identifier 'Telangana', which could impact voter connection.
Sources indicate that the BRS may deliberate on a potential return to the TRS name, but any such decision is likely to be made just before the next assembly elections, reflecting a strategic approach to rebranding and voter engagement.
This ongoing discussion underscores the intricate dynamics of political nomenclature and the critical role of the Election Commission in maintaining clarity and preventing voter confusion in India's democratic process.
