New Delhi: In what could prove to be a significant step in the process of decriminalization of politics, the Supreme Court on Monday set a deadline of one year for lower courts to complete the trial in cases involving MPs and MLAs.
The apex court bench headed by Justice RM Lodha said the offences for which trial has to conclude within one year are those mentioned under Sections 8(1), 8(2) and 8(3) of the Representation of People Act.
The bench, however, said the period can be extended by the Chief Justice if he is satisfied with the reason given by trial judge for not completing the trial within this period. The SC further stated that the trial in cases involving MPs and MLAs are to be conducted on day-to-day basis.
The court direction came on a petition filed by NGO Public Interest Foundation which sought to decriminalise the electoral politics in the country.The NGO contended that MPs and MLAs continue to be Members of Parliament and Assembly for a long time due to delay in proceedings.
Bureau Report
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