The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): The Supreme Court of India has announced its decision to closely review the ballot papers and complete video recording of the Chandigarh mayoral polls’ counting day. This decision comes amid rising concerns of potential horse-trading and other irregularities in the electoral process.
The apex court’s focus is particularly on the conduct of the Returning Officer, Anil Masih, who is alleged to have defaced the ballots during the Chandigarh mayoral polls. The controversy was brought to light in a plea filed by INDIA bloc’s mayoral candidate Kuldeep Kumar, accusing the Presiding Officer of engaging in fraud and forgery during the counting process.
In response to the situation, the Supreme Court has directed the Registrar General of the Punjab and Haryana High Court to ensure safe transportation of the election records to Delhi. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud emphasized the urgency of addressing these allegations and declined a request to postpone the hearing.
Masih, in his appearance before the Bench, admitted to marking eight already defaced ballot papers with an “X.” He claimed the action was a response to disturbances created by AAP Councillors during the counting process and stated that he had to monitor the situation through CCTV due to their disruptions.
The Supreme Court had previously summoned the official in question to explain his conduct, as depicted in the video evidence. After reviewing CCTV footage provided by senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the AAP Councillor, CJI Chandrachud had expressed grave concerns, remarking, “This is a mockery of democracy. He is murdering democracy.”
The court had earlier deferred the February 7 meeting of the Corporation and ordered that all records related to the election, including ballot papers and videography footage, be placed under the custody of the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s Registrar General. The court noted the necessity of an interim order to preserve the integrity of the electoral process.
The joint candidate of the AAP and Congress, Kuldeep Kumar, approached the Supreme Court after the Punjab and Haryana High Court declined to stay the election results held on January 30 for the Mayor’s post. Kumar’s petition in the High Court had called for fresh elections, alleging significant deviations from standard practices and rules, including the refusal of the Presiding Officer to allow party nominees to monitor the vote counting. He advocated for new elections under the supervision of a retired High Court judge to ensure fairness and transparency.