The Supreme Court of India has postponed the hearing on PILs seeking RTI coverage for major political parties, aimed at enhancing transparency and limiting black money in elections. The case will now be reconsidered on May 15. Advocates argue this could reshape political accountability in India’s electoral system.
The Supreme Court of India ruled that the electoral bonds scheme violated the right to information and free speech, dismissing a review petition against its earlier decision. The scheme’s anonymity favored the ruling party and undermined accountability. The Court mandated disclosure of all related financial details by the State Bank of India and the Election Commission.
Lakshmi Puri filed a petition in the Delhi High Court against TMC leader Saket Gokhale, accusing him of not following a defamation ruling. The case is based on a defamation suit Puri had filed, which led to a court order. She says Gokhale has not followed the directions given in the order. Her petition asks the court to enforce the judgment and take proper legal action.
Today(26th Sept),The Delhi High Court stated that it lacks the resources and expertise to create a uniform banking code for foreign exchange transactions aimed at curbing black money and benami dealings. It directed that the petition be treated as a representation to the Ministry of Finance, which will consult with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Reserve Bank of India.
Justice BV Nagarathna criticized demonetization at the Courts and the Constitution Conference, citing lack of proper decision-making and negligible impact on black money. She emphasized the disproportionate impact on the public, with 98% of demonetized currency returning to the RBI. She also highlighted the judiciary’s role in ensuring a relevant Constitution.