What caution did the Supreme Court give to the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker regarding anti-defection proceedings

The Supreme Court has cautioned the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker to not reduce anti-defection proceedings into a charade.
The Supreme Court has cautioned the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker regarding anti-defection proceedings in the following ways:
  • The court advised the Speaker not to reduce the proceedings into a charade or allow them to become tools of vindictive politics.
  • The Speaker was reminded that their position is important in upholding the principles of constitutional democracy, and they should act impartially and fairly.
  • The court emphasized that the Speaker should not delay proceedings or use it as a means to shield and protect defectors or encourage political horse-trading.
  • The Speaker was directed to dispose of disqualification petitions within a reasonable time frame to ensure a prompt and fair decision.
  • The court highlighted that the Speaker's decision should be based on objective standards and well-settled legal principles, with reasons provided.
Overall, the Supreme Court urged the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker to exercise their powers judiciously and maintain the integrity of anti-defection proceedings.
Answered a year ago
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