The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition related to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's 'vote rigging' allegations. The court stated that the matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Election Commission. The petitioner was directed to approach the Commission.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition related to the 'vote rigging' allegations made by Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi regarding the Karnataka elections. The court clearly stated that this matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Election Commission, and therefore, the Supreme Court will not intervene. Following this decision by the court, debate on this issue has intensified once again in political circles.
What Was the Case?
Some time ago, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had alleged irregularities during the Karnataka Assembly elections. He stated that widespread 'vote rigging' had occurred in several assembly constituencies in the state, especially in Bengaluru Central. Rahul Gandhi also alleged that the ruling party, BJP, had influenced the electoral process. This statement had sparked a political controversy nationwide.
What Was Demanded in the Petition?
Following Rahul Gandhi's allegations, a petitioner filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court. The petition demanded that the court constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to be led by a retired judge. The petitioner argued that a fair investigation of the matter would only be possible if conducted under the court's supervision.
Why Did the Supreme Court Dismiss the Petition?
During the hearing, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymala Bagchi dismissed the petition, stating that the Election Commission has the authority to hear matters related to irregularities in elections. The court clarified that the petitioner should directly contact the Election Commission.
The Supreme Court stated in its order –
“We have heard the arguments of the petitioner. This petition has been filed as a Public Interest Litigation, but this subject does not fall within the ambit of the Supreme Court. The petitioner should place this matter before the Election Commission. We will not entertain such petitions for which solutions are already available with constitutional institutions.”
What Did the Lawyer Say?
On behalf of the petitioner, Advocate Rohit Pandey argued that the Election Commission had already been informed about this matter, but the Commission did not take any action. He stated that since the transparency of the electoral process is the foundation of democracy, the Supreme Court should intervene. However, the court rejected this argument.
Rahul Gandhi's Allegations
On August 7, Rahul Gandhi alleged in a press conference that a large amount of vote rigging had occurred during the elections in Karnataka. Directly attacking the BJP, he stated that the ruling party had tampered with the democratic process. While the opposition tried to corner the government with Rahul Gandhi's statement, the BJP completely dismissed these allegations as false.
Election Commission's Reaction
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had sought evidence from Rahul Gandhi regarding his allegations. The Commission had asked the Congress leader to submit an affidavit within seven days in support of his claims. The Election Commission stated that if Rahul Gandhi failed to provide evidence, he would have to admit that his statement was baseless.
