Adversitement
Supreme Court Rules Lawmakers Liable for Prosecution in Bribery Cases
Published On : 2024-03-04T17:31:07+0530 [ IST ] |
Author : Mayur_Tembhare
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India / New Delhi :
In a significant and landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has declared that lawmakers can be prosecuted for receiving bribes in exchange for votes or speeches within the legislature. Overturning a 1998 judgement, the court emphasized that parliamentary privilege does not extend to bribery and that legislators must be free from external influence while performing their duties.
The Supreme Court's ruling clarifies that the immunity granted to lawmakers is intended for the free exchange of ideas and debates within the Parliament, ensuring that members are not constrained by external pressures. However, this immunity does not shield legislators from prosecution if they engage in corrupt practices such as accepting bribes for votes or speeches.
The 1998 judgement, delivered by a five-judge bench, had granted total immunity to Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) in matters related to voting in the House. This immunity effectively protected lawmakers from prosecution even if they accepted bribes in exchange for casting votes.
The Supreme Court's decision underscores the principle that lawmakers must uphold the integrity and sanctity of the legislative process by abstaining from corrupt practices. By overruling the previous judgement and clarifying the limits of parliamentary privilege, the court has taken a significant step towards ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.
The ruling reaffirms the importance of maintaining the independence and integrity of the legislative branch, while also upholding the rule of law and democratic values. It sends a strong message that corruption and unethical conduct will not be tolerated in the highest echelons of government, further strengthening India's democratic institutions.
Source : India Today
Tags : Supreme Court , prosecution , immunity , Bribery , landmark decision , parliamentary privilege , lawmakers ,
Summary : In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has ruled that lawmakers can be prosecuted for receiving bribes in exchange for votes or speeches in the legislature. Overruling a 1998 judgement, the court clarified that parliamentary privilege does not protect bribery and that legislators must be free from external influence. This ruling marks a significant shift in accountability and integrity in the legislative process.
Adversitement