The Supreme Court witnessed an unusual scene as lawyers and litigants crowded the CJI’s courtroom to watch West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee personally present arguments in the SIR case.
The hearing on the electoral roll revision issue drew wide attention and has been adjourned for further proceedings.
The Supreme Court examined whether the Election Commission can deviate from prescribed rules while conducting a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls under Article 324 and Section 21. Senior Advocate Rakesh argued that the ECI’s powers are wide but must remain fair, just, and constitutionally regulated.
Justice Dipankar Datta, born on August 10, 1960, assumed office in the Supreme Court on December 12, 2022, after serving as Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court. With 81 authored judgments, notable cases include media influence in investigations and challenges against restrictive IT Rules. He retires on February 8, 2030.
The Karnataka High Court ruled that the Congress party’s 2023 election manifesto pledges are not considered ‘corrupt practices’ under the Representation of People Act of 1951. The court emphasized that policy declarations by political parties cannot be classified as corrupt practices and stated that the validity of policies should be left to the voters’ discretion. The court rejected a petition challenging the election of a Congress MLA based on the party’s manifesto.
Today(on 19th April), the Supreme Court dismissed an appeal on Lok Sabha nomination paper rejection, cautioning against court interference to avoid potential chaos. The petitioner was advised to pursue legal remedies instead. The case highlighted concerns over arbitrary rejection of nomination papers, advocating for a fairer electoral process. The Banka constituency will vote on April 26th. Follow for more legal updates.
On Wednesday (18th April): The Supreme Court scheduled a hearing for an independent candidate from Banka, Bihar. The candidate contests the cancellation of their Lok Sabha polls nomination, citing arbitrary decision-making by Election Returning Officers. The petition also seeks clarity on the term “defects of substantial character” in the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
