The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The requirement for candidates to file a legal declaration (affidavit) along with their nomination papers stems from the Supreme Court's judgment in the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) vs. Union of India (2002) case. The Court held that the right to know about the antecedents of a candidate is part of the voter's fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a). This led to the insertion of Section 33A in the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
- Statement 1 is Correct: Candidates are required to declare details of any pending criminal cases against them, specifically those where charges have been framed by a court or where cognizance has been taken for an offence punishable with imprisonment of two years or more.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The affidavit must include details of the assets (movable and immovable) and liabilities/dues to public financial institutions and the government, for the candidate, their spouse, and dependents.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Candidates must declare their educational qualifications, including details of the highest degree obtained and the institution involved.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: While candidates declare their current party affiliation (if any) in the nomination paper to secure a party symbol, there is no legal mandate in the affidavit (Form 26) to provide a history of all past political affiliations.
Key Takeaway: The mandatory disclosure in election affidavits (Form 26) covers three specific areas: Criminal Antecedents, Assets and Liabilities, and Educational Qualifications, to ensure an informed choice by the voter.