![[BREAKING] LS Polls 2024 | Plea for Re-Polling in Bihar's Munger Refused by Supreme Court](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-64.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Supreme Court Today (May 31st) refused to entertain a plea seeking directions to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to conduct re-polling in Munger parliamentary constituency in Bihar in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections. A Vacation Bench of Justices Satish Chandra Sharma and Prasanna B Varale took exception to the petitioner not approaching Patna High Court first.
The Calcutta High Court directed the Election Commission of India to shut down Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] offices near a polling station. The offices must be closed in accordance with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) regulations 48 hours before polling. This order stemmed from a petition filed by a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) representative.
Today, On 28th May, Atishi, an AAP leader, summoned by a Delhi court in a defamation case filed by a Delhi BJP member over her claims of BJP attempting to poach AAP MLAs. The court has directed her to appear on June 29th. This legal action reflects the escalating tension and legal scrutiny in Delhi’s political landscape.
The Supreme Court set to review a petition about reported voter numbers, raising concerns about potential discrepancies. The NGO Association of Democratic Reforms requested the Election Commission of India to disclose voting numbers and upload scanned copies of Form 17C. Various opposition parties are seeking transparency and accountability from the ECI. Opposition leaders highlighted significant discrepancies.
The ECI submitted an affidavit on 22nd May, to the Supreme Court, arguing against the disclosure of Form 17C data, stating it could confuse voters. The ECI criticized ADR for making false allegations and seeking unfounded entitlements. A potential legal battle looms as the Supreme Court asks ECI to respond to ADR’s application, raising transparency concerns.
Today, On 21st May, Hotels and bar owners in Mumbai challenge the ‘dry day’ on the day of poll results, stating it harms their business and is unnecessary after voting. The Bombay High Court will consider the plea, which seeks relaxation of the alcohol sales ban during this period due to economic concerns for the hospitality industry.
Today(on 21st May),ECI imposes 24-hour campaign ban on BJP’s Abhijit Gangopadhyay for derogatory comments against Mamata Banerjee, prohibiting campaign activities from 5 PM on May 21. Gangopadhyay, a former Calcutta High Court judge, faces repercussions for his remarks during the Lok Sabha elections.
Today, On 21st May, The BJP appealed a Calcutta High Court order restricting derogatory ads against the TMC. They claim they were not given a chance to present their case. The court has agreed to prioritize the matter but criticized the Election Commission for not addressing the TMC’s complaints. The order mandates the BJP to cease such ads immediately.
Today, On 16th May, the Supreme Court questioned the Election Commission of India about the delay in publishing total votes polled within 48 hours of polling. The court urged transparency and timely dissemination of election data. The ECI’s response is awaited. This development showcases the judiciary’s role in ensuring electoral transparency. The ECI has been directed to respond to the petition seeking disclosure of final authenticated voter turnout data within 48 hours of polling. This request is in light of concerns over the substantial increase in final voter turnout data compared to initial estimates, raising questions about the correctness of the data. The Supreme Court has given the ECI a week to file its reply, with the case set for consideration on May 24.
Today (10th May): The Delhi High Court declined to micromanage the Election Commission of India (ECI), stating that it is a constitutional body. The court addressed a petition seeking an FIR against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleged hate speeches during the Lok Sabha elections. The ECI assured the court it would act in accordance with the law. The case will be further heard on May 13.