MP's qualifications
I disagree completely with the writer under this heading (10 Dec) that an MP candidate must have 15 years of political experience at union, thana, zilla level etc. Such a requirement will fossilize the political process for career politicians and there will be no newcomers and no new big ideas. The writer has also been misinformed about such a process in other countries; for instance in the UK there is no such requirement. That is why Una King could be nominated and won the Tower Hamlets seat for Labour in 1997 when the local career politician with long experience Ms. Paula Uddin made way for her.
Of course an educational requirement is a must to understand and take proper part in the proceedings of the House, and this and only this along with clearance from criminal record or debt defaulting etc are only legal matters for consideration of nomination for an MP candidate. Popularity, charisma, experience etc must be left to the parties. There must also be provision for independent candidates or new parties in any election, and not only catering to the wishes of the old and established parties. Forfeiture of hefty deposits in not gaining certain percentage votes should be the only deterrent in these matters.
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