Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Polity
Why in News?
The Supreme Court of India issued a major ruling (State of Karnataka v. Prathik Parasrampuria) aimed at curbing electoral inducements, money power, and political interference in criminal prosecutions.
Key Ruling Highlights
- High Court Approval - State governments are barred from unilaterally withdrawing criminal cases filed against election candidates simply because a new party takes power.
- Any application to withdraw election-related prosecutions now requires mandatory judicial scrutiny and prior approval from the concerned High Court.
- Investigation Deadline - Investigations into election-related criminal FIRs must be fast-tracked, with a target completion timeframe of 1 year.
- Periodic progress will be reported to the Election Commission of India (ECI).
- Special Designated Trial Courts - High Courts must designate special courts for the speedy trial and disposal of election-related prosecutions involving
- Candidates,
- Sitting MPs, and
- MLAs, ensuring cases reach a logical conclusion prior to the next 5-year election cycle.
- SOP for Cash Seizures - To protect citizens from arbitrary harassment, Static Surveillance Teams seizing cash over Rs.10 lakh must record written reasons.
- It establishes a prima facie link to electoral offences and forward the details directly to Income Tax authorities.
- Compliance Reporting - The ECI and state governments must file a formal compliance report regarding the implementation of these directions on or before November 18, 2026.
Reference
Money Control | SC mandates HC approval for withdrawals
