The Supreme Court slammed Prashant Bhushan for calling the Election Commission a ‘despot’, stating “Let’s not make sweeping statements” while hearing the case. The Bench also reminded him to “confine your submissions to pleadings” during the sharp exchange in court.
Former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and senior advocate Harish Salve are set to depose before a parliamentary committee discussing the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal. The panel has scheduled meetings on March 11 and 17 to interact with legal experts on the subject. Their insights are expected to shape discussions on electoral reforms in India.
In West Bengal, both the TMC and BJP urged the Election Commission to address the issue of alleged “ghost voters.” Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of adding outsiders to the voter rolls through online means ahead of the upcoming elections. Meanwhile, the BJP, which has long raised concerns about bogus voters linked to infiltration, is now highlighting the issue from a different angle. The demand for electoral transparency has intensified as both parties push for action.
TMC MP Mahua Moitra filed a petition in the Supreme Court backing challenges to the validity of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners’ (EC) appointment process. The controversy arose after the Modi government introduced a new law replacing the Chief Justice of India with a Union cabinet minister, chosen on the prime minister’s recommendation, in the selection panel. Critics argue that this change undermines the independence of the Election Commission. The case raises concerns over executive influence in crucial constitutional appointments.