Tripura HC Rejects Pleas for Online Nomination Submissions in Panchayat Elections

The Tripura High Court dismissed the CPI(M) and Congress's pleas to allow online nomination submissions and extend the deadline for panchayat elections. Despite acknowledging the argument, the court upheld traditional methods but urged future consideration of online submissions due to technological advancements.

The Tripura High Court on Thursday refused the pleas by the CPI(M) and Congress seeking online submissions of nominations and extending the deadline for the upcoming panchayat elections in the state.

The division bench consisting of Justice Arindam Lodh and Justice Sabyasachi Datta Purakayastha rejected the appeals.

The deadline for filing nomination papers ended on Thursday, with the elections slated for August 8.

Senior lawyer Purushottam Roy Barman, representing the petitioners, argued that the opposition candidates were hindered by violence and thus demanded online submission and deadline extension. However, the State Election Commission (SEC) turned down the requests.

Post-hearing, Barman told reporters that although the court dismissed the petitions, it directed the SEC and the state government to ensure a fair election process.

He noted that the court made important remarks on considering online nominations for future elections, recognizing the advancements in technology.

(With inputs from agencies.)