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Top court asks if poll ban on persons charged with crimes

Case Overview:
The Supreme Court of India is hearing a petition on whether individuals charged with heinous crimes (e.g., murder, rape) should be barred from contesting elections, or if such a ban could unjustly affect those later acquitted.

Relevance : GS 2(Polity , Judiciary)

Key Arguments:

  • Petitioner’s Argument (Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay):
    • Right to contest elections is not a fundamental right.
    • India’s large population ensures a sufficient pool of honest candidates, so limiting eligibility won’t harm the system.
    • Criticized the current electoral system for discouraging honest candidates.
  • Courts Inquiry:
    • Justice Surya Kant raised concerns about the irreversible damage to individuals who may be barred from elections but later acquitted.
    • Focus on whether a ban on candidates charged with crimes undermines fairness and justice.
    • Questioned the feasibility of finding enough “honest” candidates in the current political environment.

2020 Supreme Court Judgment:

  • Ordered political parties to disclose the criminal history of candidates for Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, and explain why candidates with criminal charges were selected.
  • Aimed to reduce criminal influence in politics by enhancing transparency through publication in newspapers and on social media.

Current Legal Implications:

  • The case raises a balance between preventing criminals in politics and protecting individuals’ legal rights if later acquitted.
  • The decision could influence candidate selection processes, transparency rules, and electoral reforms.

Next Steps:

  • Further hearings scheduled for January 27 to discuss the case in greater detail.

February 2025
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