Today (5th April): Anil Masih, the former poll officer in the Chandigarh mayoral election, has issued an unconditional apology before the Supreme Court for unlawfully altering the election outcome and making false statements. The Court condemned his conduct and issued a show-cause notice. The matter will be examined further in July, with the Court expressing distress over observed “horse-trading”.
Returning officer Anil Masih admits inability to answer CJI’s questions properly, citing depression and stress after a leaked video. The Supreme Court bench, led by CJI DY Chandrachud, is set to review Masih’s affidavit today. Previously, Masih’s actions in the Chandigarh mayoral polls were criticized, and AAP’s Kuldeep Kumar was declared the winner. Masih had initially declared the BJP candidate as the victor, but the Supreme Court ordered a recount.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been lodged against Chief Justice of India (CJI) Chandrachud, challenging a recent order for violating constitutional rights and setting a negative precedent. The PIL, supported by prominent advocates, seeks legal remedies, including a finding of violation, filing of a Contempt Petition, and impeachment calls against CJI Chandrachud. The petition alleges legal malice, overruling of precedent, and calls for disciplinary actions, signaling significant implications for India’s criminal procedure.
The Supreme Court declared AAP councillor Kuldeep Kumar as the winner of the Chandigarh mayoral polls, rebuking the returning officer for unlawfully altering the election’s course and providing false statements. The court ordered the eight “invalid” votes to be counted as valid, highlighting the importance of preserving the electoral democratic process. Anil Masih was issued a show-cause notice.