NEW DELHI: Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner, is set to retire in February, and this has once again drawn attention to an important issue before the Supreme Court. On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the court discussed the need to speed up a decision on the legality of a new law that impacts the appointment of Election Commissioners. This law gives significant control to the Central government.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar dismissed Elon Musk’s claims that Indian Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) can be hacked, stating they are tamper-proof and not connected to any network, unlike some systems in the U.S. The Election Commission and the Supreme Court have repeatedly confirmed the reliability and security of India’s EVMs, labeling such allegations as baseless.
In 2024, India’s Supreme Court dealt with numerous landmark rulings, focusing on personal liberty, places of worship disputes, and electoral reforms. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna emphasized efficiency, reforming case backlogs. Notable cases included prohibitions on religious site surveys, striking down electoral bonds, and addressing environmental pollution. The court’s decisions significantly influenced legal frameworks and societal issues.
The DMCC has requested a delay in Manipur’s Lok Sabha elections due to ongoing conflict between Meitei and Kuki-Zo tribes. They highlighted politically driven attacks on Meitei and the compromised law and order situation, leading to an unlevel playing field for political entities. The conflict has also resulted in dire measures, including looting of firearms.
The Supreme Court of India today refused to suspend the appointment of new Election Commissioners made under a controversial 2023 law. The exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee raised concerns. The legal scrutiny stems from appointments overseen by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the contentious legislation. The petition challenges the Act’s provisions and highlights the debate over the electoral appointment process.
Congress leader Jaya Thakur has approached the Supreme Court with a plea that could shape the future of appointments within the Election Commission of India. This action comes in the wake of recent controversies surrounding the resignation of Election Commissioner Arun Goel and raises questions about the integrity and independence of the electoral body under […]
Presidential Assent to a Transformative Bill The President of India on 28th December 2023 has endorsed a significant legislative change, giving her assent to the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill 2023. This bill, pivotal in its scope and impact, aims to regulate the appointment […]
The Delhi High Court’s recent directive concerning Rahul Gandhi’s speech against Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sparked significant attention. This case involves complex issues of political speech, electoral integrity, and legal jurisdiction. Also read-Delhi HC Orders Rahul Gandhi To Delete Tweet On Minor Rape Victim (lawchakra.in) Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Congress party, […]
The Lok Sabha’s recent passage of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, has sparked a significant debate in India’s political landscape. This bill, already approved by the Rajya Sabha, seeks to overhaul the appointment process and service conditions of the Chief Election Commissioner […]