Vidhi Codex

The Kerala Local Authorities (Prohibition of Defection) Act 1999

The Kerala Local Authorities (Prohibition of Defection) Act 1999

Infrastructure199913 sections

This law regulates political defection by preventing local government officials in Kerala, India, from switching political parties or coalitions after being elected. It applies directly to elected members of village, block, and district panchayats, as well as municipal councils and corporations. The Act matters because it strengthens democratic stability and accountability in local governance. Under these regulations, members who quit their parties, join opposing coalitions, or disobey official party voting directions in key decisions lose their seats. Disqualified members are also banned from running in local elections for six years, deterring political opportunism and protecting voter trust.

Start reading →Read full ActSections
  1. 0. Preamble
  2. 1. Short title and commencement.
  3. 2. Definition.
  4. 3. Disqualification on ground of defection.
  5. 4. Decision on question as to disqualification on ground of defection.
  6. 5. Powers of the State Election Commission.
  7. 6. Bar of jurisdiction of the Civil Courts.
  8. 7. Power of the Government to make rules.
  9. 8. Validation of action taken by the State Election Commission in respect of defection
  10. 9. Amendment of certain Acts.
  11. 10. Repeal and saving.
  12. I. AMENDMENT TO THE KERALA PANCHAYAT RAJ ACT, 1994 (13 OF 1994)
  13. II. AMENDMENTS TO THE KERALA MUNICIPALITY ACT, 1994 (20 OF 1994)

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