The Supreme Court has issued notice to the Centre and the Election Commission on a plea seeking strict checks on unregulated spending by political parties during elections. The Court said the issue raises serious constitutional questions about free speech and the health of Indian democracy.
The Supreme Court asked whether the NOTA option has truly improved the “quality” of elected leaders, observing that it cannot fill a seat even if it gets maximum votes. The Court is hearing a plea seeking NOTA in uncontested elections and has listed the matter for March 17.
The Supreme Court examined Bar Council election regulations and candidate eligibility under the Advocates Act, 1961, directing review of the provision within a week, possible amendment, and referral to the Supervisory Committee to ensure a fair electoral process.
The Supreme Court of India asked the Election Commission of India to consider suggestions made in a PIL to curb excessive election expenditure and improve its SOPs. While refusing to rely on third-party reports, the Court disposed of the PIL after directing the EC to examine and circulate the petitioner’s proposals internally.
Parliament has scheduled a debate on electoral reforms as outrage grows over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls and rising BLO deaths. Opposition leaders demand urgent accountability and transparency in the nationwide revision process.
Justice Surya Kant will assume office as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on Monday, succeeding Justice B R Gavai. Known for landmark rulings on Article 370, Pegasus, and electoral reforms, his tenure is expected to shape key constitutional outcomes.
The Delhi High Court dismissed a PIL filed by Independent candidate Aakash Goel over electoral finance gaps, misuse of government machinery, voter awareness, and high political spending. The Court held these issues are policy matters and directed him to approach authorities.
The Election Commission has published 65 lakh deleted voter names in Bihar within 56 hours of a Supreme Court order. Reasons for deletions are now public on district websites.
The Supreme Court addressed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar, stating, “West Bengal can wait for the time being.” The court chose to focus on Bihar’s voter list issues ahead of elections, delaying West Bengal.
RJD MP Manoj Jha has moved the Supreme Court against the ECI’s Bihar voter list revision, alleging mass disenfranchisement of marginalised groups. He called the rushed process exclusionary and a threat to democracy.
