Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces

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Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces The Supreme Court of India has suggested that the Union Government develop a comprehensive policy addressing the construction of feeding rooms and childcare facilities  in public places. This move aims to ensure that nursing mothers and their children can access basic amenities in a dignified and private manner, reinforcing their fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution. SC Encourages Policy Formulation A bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna  and Justice N Kotiswar Singh  highlighted the absence of a structured framework to address this pressing issue. The court advised the Centre to propose a policy that could then be implemented across the states, scheduling the next hearing for December 10, 2024.   The apex court emphasized that before issuing formal directions, it was crucial to understand the Centre’s perspective on implementing the petitioner’s demand for childcare and feedi...

Shaping Democracy: Examining Articles 324 to 329 of the Indian Constitution with Case Law Insights

Shaping Democracy: Examining Articles 324 to 329 of the Indian Constitution with Case Law Insights



Articles 324 to 329 of the Indian Constitution: Elections and Representation


Articles 324 to 329 of the Indian Constitution form the bedrock for the conduct of elections, the establishment of the Election Commission, and the representation of Anglo-Indians in the House of the People (Lok Sabha) and Legislative Assemblies. In the contemporary era, marked by vibrant democratic processes and evolving electoral dynamics, these constitutional provisions play a pivotal role in shaping the democratic fabric of the nation. This article explores the constitutional nuances, examines relevant case laws, and analyzes the ongoing relevance of these provisions in the current electoral and political landscape.


Constitutional Provisions:


- Article 324: Empowers the Election Commission to superintend, direct, and control elections.


- Article 325: Provides for adult suffrage, ensuring that no person can be denied the right to vote on grounds of religion, race, caste, or sex.


- Article 326: Grants the power to the Parliament to make laws regarding the qualifications of electors in parliamentary and assembly elections.


- Article 327: Authorizes the Parliament to make provisions for the delimitation of constituencies and representation of Anglo-Indians in the Lok Sabha.


- Article 328: Deals with the delimitation of constituencies for legislative purposes.


- Article 329: Provides protection to laws made by the Parliament or state legislatures with respect to elections.


Contemporary Significance:


In the current electoral landscape, Articles 324 to 329 are instrumental in upholding the democratic principles of free and fair elections, universal adult suffrage, and the representation of diverse communities.


Relevant Case Laws:


Mohinder Singh Gill v. The Chief Election Commissioner (1977):


This case reinforced the importance of free and fair elections as a basic feature of the Constitution. The Supreme Court upheld the powers of the Election Commission to cancel elections if they are vitiated by corrupt practices or electoral malpractices.


Lily Thomas v. Union of India (2000):


The Supreme Court, in this case, emphasized the significance of Article 329 in protecting laws related to elections. It upheld the validity of laws disqualifying convicted legislators, highlighting the need to cleanse the political system.


Interpretation and Application:


1. Election Commission's Independence:

   - Article 324 ensures the independence of the Election Commission, allowing it to function without interference to conduct free and fair elections.


2. Universal Adult Suffrage:

   - Articles 325 and 326 enshrine the principle of universal adult suffrage, emphasizing the equal right to vote for all citizens without discrimination.


3. Representation of Anglo-Indians:

   - Articles 327 and 331 address the representation of Anglo-Indians, ensuring their presence in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures.


4. Delimitation of Constituencies:

   - Articles 327 and 328 provide the constitutional framework for the delimitation of constituencies, a crucial aspect in maintaining equitable representation.


Challenges and Solutions:


1. Electoral Integrity:

   - Ensuring the integrity of elections in the face of evolving challenges such as misinformation, technology-driven malpractices, and the influence of money remains a continuous challenge.


2. Inclusive Representation:

   - Balancing the representation of diverse communities and ensuring their effective participation in the democratic process is an ongoing goal.


Contemporary Electoral Dynamics:


In the era of rapid information dissemination and diverse political ideologies, these constitutional provisions guide the democratic process, allowing for adaptability to emerging challenges.


Conclusion:


Articles 324 to 329 of the Indian Constitution embody the essence of democratic governance by establishing the framework for free and fair elections, universal adult suffrage, and equitable representation. Case laws like Mohinder Singh Gill v. The Chief Election Commissioner and Lily Thomas v. Union of India have played a significant role in shaping the interpretation of these provisions. In the contemporary era, where the democratic process is dynamic and multifaceted, these articles remain foundational in upholding the principles of democratic governance.

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