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 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.
