Bihar's political landscape has witnessed a significant turn with the Supreme Court ordering the reinstatement of Sunil Singh, a Rajya Sabha Member (MLC) from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
Patna: A crucial development has unfolded in Bihar's politics as the Supreme Court has directed the reinstatement of Sunil Singh, an MLC from the RJD. Singh's MLC membership was revoked following allegations of disrespectful comments and mimicry of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. However, the apex court has overturned this decision, providing him considerable relief.
Supreme Court's Significant Ruling
On Tuesday, a bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh, while acknowledging Sunil Singh's inappropriate behavior, deemed the revocation of his membership an excessive punishment. The court, exercising its powers under Article 142, reinstated his membership and quashed the notification issued by the Legislative Council's Chairman.
Supreme Court - What if Misconduct Recurs?
The Supreme Court clarified that if Sunil Singh engages in further inappropriate conduct within the house, the Ethics Committee and the Chairman of the Legislative Council can take appropriate action. The court also stated that while constitutional courts do not unnecessarily interfere in the functioning of the legislature, principles of justice must be upheld.
The Complete Incident
On July 26, 2024, Sunil Singh's membership was revoked from the Legislative Council. He was accused of mimicking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during the Governor's address. Following a complaint filed by a JD(U) MLC, an inquiry committee recommended the revocation of his membership, citing indiscipline.
Subsequently, Sunil Singh challenged this decision in the Supreme Court, terming it arbitrary. He argued that action was taken against him without concrete evidence. Considering his seat vacant, the Election Commission issued a notification for a by-election, in which senior JD(U) leader Lalit Singh filed his nomination. However, this process has been nullified following the Supreme Court's decision.
Advice for Future Caution
The Supreme Court, in its judgment, also noted that Sunil Singh's seven-month suspension from the house would be considered sufficient punishment. However, he will not receive any financial benefits for this period, though he will be entitled to all benefits upon the completion of his term. The court has strictly instructed Sunil Singh to refrain from such behavior in the future and maintain decorum in the house. This decision may reshape Bihar's political dynamics, potentially strengthening the RJD.
