In a landmark decision today, the Supreme Court overturned its previous ruling on the cash-for-votes case, stating that legislators will not receive any exemptions in matters involving bribery for votes. Referring to Article 105, the bench of seven judges made it clear that no immunity would be granted in the parliamentary proceedings related to the exchange of votes for cash.
All judges, including Chief Justice D. Y. Chandrachud, Justice A. S. Bopanna, Justice M. M. Sundares, Justice P. S. Narsimha, Justice J. B. Pardiwala, Justice Sanjay Kumar, and Justice Manoj Mishra, delivered a unanimous verdict. This decision marks a reversal of the earlier judgment, safeguarding the integrity of the parliamentary process against corruption.
CJI D. Y. Chandrachud emphasized, “No leniency can be granted in corruption; special privileges should not be granted for taking bribes. Cases should be pursued against those involved in exchanging notes for votes.” This verdict holds significance as it overturns a 1998 decision that granted special privileges to parliamentarians for actions performed within the scope of their legislative duties.
The Supreme Court underscored that corruption and bribery by legislators undermine the functioning of Indian parliamentary democracy. This decision reinforces the commitment to uphold the principles of justice and transparency in the country’s political system.
