Reacting to the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Chandigarh mayoral polls, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed gratitude to the apex court, stating that the judgment has safeguarded democracy during challenging times. Kejriwal emphasized the significance of the decision in the current political climate, where democracy is perceived to be under threat.
Kejriwal asserted that the ruling reflects the victory of truth and integrity, highlighting the resilience of democratic institutions against attempts to undermine them. He also praised the efforts of AAP and its allies in fighting against electoral malpractices, emphasizing that unity, strategic planning, and hard work can overcome any political challenge.
Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court, during the hearing on a petition regarding allegations of vote tampering, observed that the eight disputed votes should be considered valid, prompting a recount. The bench scrutinized the ballot papers and reviewed video recordings presented by a judicial officer appointed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s Registrar General.
The controversy arose after the returning officer declared eight votes invalid, contributing to the victory of the BJP candidate in the mayoral polls. However, AAP candidate Kuldeep Kumar contested the decision, alleging electoral malpractices by the returning officer.
The Supreme Court’s scrutiny of the ballots and admonishment of the returning officer underscored its commitment to upholding electoral integrity and ensuring fairness in democratic processes. The court’s insistence on accountability and transparency in the electoral process reaffirms its role as a guardian of democracy.
In defense, the returning officer’s counsel argued that the marks made on the ballots were minimal and that the returning officer acted within his authority. However, the court remained firm in its stance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established procedures and principles of fairness in electoral conduct.
Overall, the Supreme Court’s intervention in the Chandigarh mayoral polls signifies a victory for democratic values and underscores the judiciary’s crucial role in safeguarding electoral integrity and upholding the rule of law.
