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”.
The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, denounced the alleged tampering of ballot papers during the Chandigarh Mayor elections as a “murder of democracy.” The Court issued a notice, ordered the preservation of evidence, and halted further municipal activities, demonstrating its commitment to upholding democratic values and fair electoral processes.
The mayoral election in Chandigarh has become embroiled in controversy, with allegations of fraud and procedural violations. The BJP candidate emerged victorious, but the rejection of eight votes sparked legal challenges. The court has opted to adjourn the matter, leaving the city’s leadership hanging in the balance. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for electoral politics.