Centre Opposes Life Ban on Convicted Politicians

The Centre has opposed a Supreme Court plea seeking a life ban on convicted politicians, stating that such disqualification is solely within Parliament's domain. The Centre argues that legislative decisions shouldn't be subject to judicial review and emphasizes that current penalties are proportionate and time-bound.

The Centre has firmly opposed a plea in the Supreme Court calling for a lifetime ban on convicted politicians, arguing that this decision should rest solely with the Parliament. In an affidavit, the Centre stated that such matters lie beyond judicial purview, emphasizing Parliament's exclusive power in this domain.

The affidavit underlined Parliament's established policy of time-bound penalties under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and affirmed that imposing life bans would improperly extend judicial influence into legislative territory.

The plea, filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, seeks stronger penalties and expedited trials for MPs and MLAs. However, the Centre reiterated that legislative decisions, including the period of disqualification, are within the purview of Parliament and should not be second-guessed by the court.