For the first time, EVM ballot papers will feature colour photos of candidates and bigger, bold serial numbers. The change starts with Bihar elections.
The Supreme Court of India is reviewing a Public Interest Litigation challenging Section 53(2) of the Representation of People Act, which permits unopposed candidates to be elected without votes. Concerns about potential misuse by powerful candidates were raised. Suggestions were made for requiring minimum votes for such candidates to enhance democratic integrity.
The Supreme Court Today (Oct 21) sought the response of the Union government and the Election Commission of India (ECI) to a plea challenging uncontested elections when there is only one candidate contesting the election. The petition contends that rules allowing the same prevent voters from rejecting the sole candidate using the NOTA option.
Supreme Court Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gaval stressed the crucial role of judicial review in India’s governance at a Harvard Kennedy School lecture, highlighting its impact on executive accountability and policy shaping. He emphasized the judiciary’s duty to ensure legality and constitutionality of government actions, and the transformative influence of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in empowering citizens and upholding constitutional vitality.
