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Source-This post on Criminalisation of Indian Politics has been created based on the article “‘Accused in criminal cases won more seats in 17th LS’” published in “The Hindu” on 22 April 2024.
Why in the news?
According to a report submitted by amicus curiae to the Supreme Court, candidates with criminal cases have won more seats in the 17th Lok Sabha than those without any criminal records.
Key findings of the amicus curiae’s 20th report
1) It cited the report by the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) on the Lok Sabha elections 2024 which revealed that in Phase I and Phase II of the elections, out of 2,810 candidates (1,618 in Phase I and 1,192 in Phase II), 18% had criminal cases. Among them, 12% were facing serious charges punishable with 5 years or more of imprisonment.
NOTE-Amicus Curiae meaning– Friend Of the court
2) As per data from the Registrar Generals of State High Courts, till January, there were 4,472 unresolved criminal cases against lawmakers.
3) In the 19th report, the amicus curiae noted that out of 5,175 pending cases as of November 2022, 2,116 cases (40%) had been awaiting trial for over 5 years.
4) Information regarding cases in Special Courts designated to try MPs and MLAs was not available on any websites.
What are the recommendations made by the amicus curiae report?
1) It highlighted the significance of voter’s right to information. Voters have the right to know about lawmakers criminal history, including trial progress and reasons for delays.
2) It highlighted the need for a dedicated tab on the homepages of State High Courts’ websites that gives a specific and detailed information, district wise, of criminal trials against legislators.
3) The Supreme Court may suggest creating a model website, similar to the National Judicial Data Grid, to upload real-time information.
Read more-Criminalisation of politics: causes, impacts and solutions
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