Supreme Court Delivers Historic Verdict on Electoral Bonds Case
In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court struck down the electoral bonds scheme as unconstitutional.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court today delivered a unanimous judgment striking down the electoral bonds scheme, calling it a violation of the citizens' right to information about political funding.
The five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice observed that the scheme compromised transparency in political donations and could lead to quid pro quo arrangements.
Key Points of the Judgment
- Electoral bonds scheme declared unconstitutional
- Violates right to information under Article 19(1)(a)
- Directed disclosure of all donor details
- Election Commission to publish information within 3 weeks
"Transparency in political funding is essential for a healthy democracy. Anonymity cannot be at the cost of the people's right to know," the court stated.
Political parties have received mixed reactions to the judgment, with some welcoming it while others expressing concerns about alternative funding mechanisms.
