Electoral Bonds Controversy: Supreme Court Upholds Decision, Rejects Probe
In a recent verdict, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a series of petitions seeking a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into alleged quid pro quo arrangements between corporations and political parties regarding the purchase of electoral bonds. The court deemed such an investigation “premature and inappropriate.”
Previous Ruling on Electoral Bond Scheme
This decision follows a February ruling by the Supreme Court, which struck down the 2018 electoral bond scheme introduced by the Narendra Modi government. This scheme had facilitated anonymous political funding.
Concerns Regarding Transparency and Voter Information
A five-judge Constitution bench, led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, emphasized the importance of transparency in political funding. The bench asserted that voters require information about funding sources to exercise their right to vote effectively. Consequently, the court declared changes made to implement the scheme unconstitutional.
Constitutional Rights and Freedom of Information
The court deemed the scheme a violation of the constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression, as well as the right to information. It rejected the central government’s argument that the scheme aimed to enhance transparency and curb black money in political funding.
Key Takeaways:
| Key Learning Points |
|---|
| Supreme Court rejects SIT probe into electoral bond scheme, deeming it premature and inappropriate. |
| Previous ruling struck down the 2018 electoral bond scheme, citing concerns about transparency and voter information. |
| Scheme deemed unconstitutional due to violations of freedom of speech, expression, and right to information. |
| Court emphasized the importance of transparency in political funding for informed voter decision-making. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
