What are the measures suggested by the SC to prevent anti-defection proceedings from becoming a charade

The Supreme Court has cautioned the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker to not reduce anti-defection proceedings into a charade. (source: Do not reduce anti-defection proceedings into a charade, SC cautions Maharashtra Assembly Speaker)
The Supreme Court has suggested several measures to prevent anti-defection proceedings from becoming a charade. Some of these measures include:
  • Ensuring that the Speaker exercises his powers impartially and in accordance with the Constitution.
  • Conducting a floor test to determine the majority support of a political party or coalition in the legislature before the Speaker takes any action.
  • Conducting anti-defection proceedings within a reasonable time frame to prevent unnecessary delays and ensure prompt resolution.
  • Allowing affected members to present their case and provide them with an opportunity to be heard before any decision is made.
  • Maintaining transparency by publishing the reasons and findings behind the Speaker's decision.
  • Ensuring that the Speaker's decision is based on valid and cogent grounds and is not arbitrary or whimsical.
  • Subjecting the Speaker's decision to judicial review to ensure compliance with constitutional principles and prevent misuse or abuse of power.
By implementing these measures, it is hoped that anti-defection proceedings can be conducted in a fair and just manner, without being reduced to a charade.
Answered a year ago
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