Election Commission discretion during SIR is not unregulated power: Supreme Court - The Hindu
The Supreme Court has clarified that while the Election Commission of India (ECI) holds broad constitutional authority, its decisions cannot be unchecked or beyond judicial review. The court observed that the Commission’s discretion, especially when it deviates from established procedures or recommendations, must remain transparent, reasonable, and accountable. The judgment came while examining the ECI’s departure from the Supreme Court-mandated selection process for appointing Election Commissioners. The bench emphasized that constitutional bodies are expected to act in good faith and align with democratic principles, even when exercising discretionary powers. According to the court, allowing unlimited freedom could undermine public trust in the electoral system. Judicial oversight, it said, acts as a safeguard to ensure fairness and prevent misuse of authority. The ruling reinforces the idea that institutional independence does not mean absence of regulation, especially in matters critical to India’s democratic framework.
The Key points
- Supreme Court affirmed limits on Election Commission’s discretionary powers
- ECI must follow transparency and constitutional discipline
- Deviations from mandated procedures require valid justification
- Judicial review applies even to independent constitutional bodies
- Unregulated discretion may weaken electoral credibility
- Court stressed accountability in election administration
- Public trust in democratic institutions is a key concern
- Independence does not mean absolute authority
- Decision impacts future appointment processes
- Ruling strengthens checks and balances in Indian democracy
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