Government Opposes Lifetime Ban on Convicted Lawmakers in Supreme Court

The Union government argues that disqualification duration should remain a legislative decision, defending the current six-year ban under the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

The Union government has rejected a plea seeking a lifetime ban on convicted lawmakers, stating it falls within the exclusive domain of Parliament to decide such matters.
In its affidavit, the government defended the current six-year disqualification period under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, arguing it balances deterrence with proportionality.
The Supreme Court is reviewing the constitutional validity of Sections 8 and 9 of the Act, which govern disqualification periods for lawmakers convicted of criminal offenses or dismissed for corruption.
The Centre emphasized that courts cannot direct Parliament to legislate or amend laws in a specific manner, citing past rulings to support its position.
The case highlights concerns over the criminalization of politics, with over 5,000 criminal cases pending against lawmakers and 27 convicted leaders elected to the 2024 Lok Sabha.