The Supreme Court on Wednesday heard arguments on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a lifetime ban on Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) convicted in criminal cases. The central government, in its submission, opposed the plea, stating that the existing six-year disqualification period is sufficient to prevent convicted politicians from contesting elections.
The PIL, filed by advocate Ashwini Upadhyay, argues for a permanent disqualification of convicted politicians from electoral politics. In response, the Centre filed an affidavit asserting that such a lifetime ban is unnecessary.
Centre Asserts Legislative Authority
In its affidavit, the central government emphasized that courts have the power to strike down laws only if they are unconstitutional. However, it argued that the judiciary does not have the authority to direct Parliament on how laws should be framed or amended. The Centre maintained that electoral disqualifications should remain within the legislative domain.
The Supreme Court is yet to deliver its final ruling on the matter.