Goa, Feb. 1 -- (1) Some years back, ECI had decided to prohibit political parties from using icons of animals as election symbols. Many political parties and the civil society in general supported this decision. However, I have observed that the ECI has not implemented its ruling in the subsequent elections. I feel that, with the proliferation of political parties (national and State) and independent candidates contesting the elections, there could be a rising demand for animal icons as election symbols. Furthermore, even if the ECI does not allot contestants animal icons as election symbols, it will be unfair to continue permitting some parties to use animal icons as their symbols.
(2) Once Independent MLAs/MPs are elected, they should no...