NEW DELHI: 2nd April: The Supreme Court of India has strongly criticized Telangana Chief Minister (CM) Revanth Reddy for his controversial statement in the State Legislative Assembly. The Congress leader allegedly assured members of the opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) that there would be no bye-elections even if they switched sides to the ruling Congress party.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant criticized the BJP for likening the current political climate to the Emergency era, asserting it reflects an “undeclared Emergency.” He condemned the judiciary’s inaction on anti-defection laws and questioned its independence, accusing it of failing to protect the Constitution and uphold democratic principles amid alleged government interference.
The Supreme Court of India affirmed the constitutional validity of the 10th Schedule, or Anti-Defection Law, originally introduced in 1985, dismissing a plea challenging it. The Court reiterated that the law prevents political instability by disqualifying members who switch parties, thereby upholding parliamentary democracy and accountability.
Six former MLAs from Himachal Pradesh are considering withdrawing their plea challenging their disqualification by the Supreme Court. They aim to participate in upcoming by-elections, as their disqualification stemmed from defying a party directive during a crucial Assembly vote. The Supreme Court had scheduled a hearing for their appeal on May 6.
Today (12th March):On March 18 (Monday), the Supreme Court is scheduled to consider the plea of six rebel Himachal Pradesh Congress leaders contesting the decision of the Assembly Speaker to disqualify them as Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
The decision, made by the Assembly Speaker under the anti-defection law, has sparked significant implications. The court proceedings are expected to address the constitutional crisis that arose from cross-voting during the Rajya Sabha election.
In a significant observation, the Kerala High Court has highlighted the need for a more stringent anti-defection law, including the imposition of financial penalties on politicians who defect. This statement comes in the context of the court’s deliberations on political defections, which it views as a threat to the integrity of democracy. Also read- Kerala […]
