Supreme Court expressed concern over inclusion of a cabinet minister in the panel for appointing Election Commissioners, observing that a minister may not oppose the Prime Minister during selection of the Chief Election Commissioner, asking “Why the show of independence.”
A PIL before the Supreme Court seeks removal of IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma as Police Observer in West Bengal, alleging intimidation, bias, and conduct that may affect election neutrality. It claims his continued role risks public confidence and threatens free and fair 2026 Assembly Elections, raising concerns over democratic integrity and lawful conduct of electoral processes.
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.
