Supreme Court directs Election Commission to submit election guidelines

The Supreme Court issued directions to curb the use of such funds to ensure the integrity of the democratic process.

Who it concerns: The matter involves the State of Karnataka and another as Appellants versus Prathik Parasrampuria as Respondent. The judgment was delivered by Justice Sanjay Karol. The Election Commission of India, the Union of India, and all State Governments and Union Territories were also made parties to the proceedings.

What the court decided

• The Court granted leave to appeal.
• The Court directed the Election Commission of India to place before the Court all guidelines framed concerning procedures for search, seizure, and prosecution of criminal matters involving elections.
• The Court appointed Mr. Gaurav Aggarwal (Senior Counsel) and Dr. Swapnil Tripathi (Counsel) as Amici Curiae to assist the Court.
• The Court issued notice to all State Governments and Union Territories to file affidavits and appear through counsel.

Also in the document

• The judgment is marked as 'REPORTABLE'.
• The Court noted that numerous criminal cases relating to crimes committed during elections are not being pursued effectively because prosecution is left to State machinery.
• The Court observed that the powers of the Election Commission under Article 324(1) are regulated by statutory provisions enacted by Parliament.