SC issues notice to Centre, poll body on blanket immunity to CEC
The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to the Centre and the Election Commission regarding a petition challenging the blanket legal immunity granted to Election Commissioners. The petitioner argues that such immunity is excessive and removes necessary legal remedies for citizens aggrieved by the Commission's actions.
Why it matters
This case addresses the balance between protecting the independence of constitutional bodies and ensuring accountability for their administrative decisions.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a response from the Centre and the Election Commission over a plea challenging immunity to Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners from any legal action for any decision taken in the course of their duties.A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohanna issued notice to the poll body and Centre on a petition filed by activist and lawyer Arun Kumar Agarwal.According to Bar and Bench, the plea challenges the constitutional validity of Section 16 of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023."Despite the absence of such blanket immunity, the Election Commission of India has successfully conducted elections over several decades.
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