Ekta Parishad, a non-governmental organisation working towards community-based governance, has asked political parties to bring in a legislation for registering the election manifestos of parties with the Election Commission.
The suggestion finds mention in the Ekta People’s Manifesto, which was presented at a panel discussion, here on Thursday.
Introducing the manifesto, parishad vice president Vadakod Monachan said the manifesto should be registered with the Election Commission to make the political parties more accountable. Six months after government formation, the manifesto of the ruling party should be reviewed to determine the seriousness in implementing the promises made during election time.
The organisation’s manifesto outlines measures such as formation of a social harmony foundation comprising members belonging to political parties and communities to ensure peace. Such a foundation had become necessary because of the increase in crime rate in the State. Steps should be taken to promote the concepts of non-violence, religious amity and Gandhian values in schools and colleges, the manifesto says.
Eco protection
The manifesto also gives thrust on environment protection, especially water resources, taking into account the future needs. It envisages setting up of green communities and Needhi Jana Kendras at panchayat level to address grievances of public. The organisation also seeks reforms to provide land to underprivileged sections, particularly to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Complimenting the organisation for bringing out the manifesto, former Member of Parliament T.N. Seema said decentralised form of governance could solve many of the issues faced by the public. Reforms to provide land to landless could bring to an end feudalism and dominance of any particular caste, she said.
Others who spoke include Congress leader Pandalam Sudhakaran, CPI leader Sathyan Mokeri, Ekta Parishad State president John Samuel and Gandhi Smarak Nidhi secretary K.G. Jagadheesan.
