Lagatar24 Desk
New Desk, July 26: The Supreme Court ordered on Tuesday, the Central government to consult the Finance Commission over the problem of political parties bribing votes with gifts.
Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, speaking on behalf of the Central government, was instructed by a bench consisting of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justices Krishna Murari, and Justices Hima Kohli,
“Mr Nataraj, please ask Finance Commission to look into this. We will list this next time. Please see how a debate can be initiated.”
After asking Senior Counsel Kapil Sibal, who was in court for another case, for his opinion, the court made the suggestion.
“Mr. Sibal is here as a senior parliamentarian. What is your view,” the Court asked.
“Solution is difficult but the problem is very serious. When Finance Commission does allocations to various states, they should take this into account, that is the debt of states and then freebies. Centre cannot be expected to issue directions,” Sibal said.
The Court was motivated by this to consult the Finance Commission.
Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, a BJP spokesperson, filed a public interest litigation (PIL) petition asking the court to register criminal charges against political parties for enticing voters with gifts during elections.
