Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman argues that AAP leader Somnath Bharti cannot represent his wife, Lipika Mitra, in her defamation complaint against her. The court acknowledges the conflict of interest due to Bharti’s direct involvement, with further hearings scheduled for July 16, 2025, as Mitra accuses Sitharaman of damaging Bharti’s reputation.
The Delhi High Court has asked Congress MP Shashi Tharoor to respond to BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar’s petition challenging a lower court’s dismissal of his defamation complaint. Chandrasekhar claims Tharoor made false statements regarding voter bribery during the 2024 elections, which allegedly harmed his reputation. A hearing is scheduled for September 16.
Former Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar recommends that the Modi government prioritize appointing new judges to address vacancies in the judiciary, rather than assigning retired judges to tribunals. He highlights the criticism faced by tribunals for backlogs and delays, emphasizing the need to expand the judiciary. Kumar also discusses potential delays in implementing criminal laws and reforms due to the structure of the coalition government.
Today(on 24th May), The Supreme Court declined to issue an interim order on a petition from the NGO Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), which sought prompt disclosure of authenticated final voter turnout data for all polling stations in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024, within 48 hours of polls closing.
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 Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has petitioned the Indian Supreme Court for transparent disclosure of voter turnout data in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024. A substantial increase in the final voter turnout figures and delays in their announcement prompted the plea, emphasizing the importance of transparent electoral processes to ensure fair elections.
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.
Today(on 12th April),, Jawahar Kumar Jha, an independent candidate from Banka, Bihar, challenges the rejection of his nomination for Lok Sabha Elections 2024 in the Supreme Court. He asserts the need for fair participation and transparent nomination processes for all candidates. His plea aims to address the discretionary powers of Election Returning Officers and seeks clarity on nominating process.