Chandigarh Mayor Elections: Officer apologizes for false statements

Anil Masih, the Returning Officer for the Chandigarh Mayor elections, has tendered an unconditional apology before the Supreme Court for making false statements regarding the tampering of ballot papers. 

Apology and court proceedings

This apology comes after a bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud initiated proceedings against Masih under Section 340 of CrPC. Initially, Masih invalidated eight votes by tampering with the ballot papers, but these votes were later validated in favor of Aam Aadmi Party candidate Kuldeep Kumar, who was declared the Mayor following the Supreme Court's order. During a recent hearing, Masih's lawyer, Mukul Rohatgi, stated that his client was offering an unconditional apology, noting that Masih was under "huge pressure" at the time. Rohatgi assured the court that Masih would withdraw his initial affidavit and submit to the court's magnanimity. However, senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi opposed the apology, arguing that mere apology was not sufficient.

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In an earlier affidavit, Masih claimed that eight ballot papers were defaced by AAP leaders, and he was in a state of depression after a CCTV clip of the incident was leaked. He mentioned that this stress and tense atmosphere affected his ability to answer questions accurately during court proceedings. Masih cited mental trauma, stress, and the heated arguments in court as reasons for his incorrect responses, stating that he was on heavy medication at the time.

Supreme Court's verdict and importance of fair elections

In February, the Supreme Court declared Kuldeep Kumar as the elected Mayor of Chandigarh Municipal Corporation, emphasizing the importance of free and fair elections. The court highlighted that fair elections are crucial for maintaining legitimacy and trust in democracy. It mentioned that local governments, like municipal corporations, play a vital role in addressing citizens' daily issues and act as a key link with representative democracy.

The court's detailed order emphasized the significance of citizens electing representatives who can effectively address their grievances.The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing to July 23, awaiting further proceedings in this case.

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