Ridding elections of black money is ECI’s responsibility: Supreme Court
In its judgment, the court said the choice made by the individual is not free if ill-gotten money is involved and rather it is clouded by gratification, monetary or otherwise, or by promises misleading
The Supreme Court has ruled that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for eliminating the influence of black money in the electoral process. Justice Sanjay Karol observed that black money compromises democracy, the rule of law, and the electoral process itself. The court acknowledged that this issue has been recognized but not resolved, and that external factors, including ill-gotten undeclared money, can influence voters' choices.
The court urged for prompt investigations, completion of criminal cases, and timely reporting to the District Magistrate/Court. It directed that FIRs be registered and that investigation officers strive to complete cases within a year, with quarterly status reports submitted to the ECI. The court also emphasized that when Static Surveillance Teams find money exceeding ₹10 lakh, information should be sent to the Income Tax authorities, and High Courts should ensure speedy trials of such cases.
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