Supreme Court Denies Hearing to Public Interest Case Seeking Electoral Reforms and Religious Equality
New Delhi, November 27, 2024:
Dr. K.A. Paul, a renowned global peace activist and the founder of the Praja Shanti Party, expressed deep disappointment over the Supreme Court’s dismissal of his public interest litigation (PIL) today. The petition sought key reforms in electoral processes, religious administration, and protection of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Indian Constitution. The PIL, which Dr. Paul argued in person, was dismissed within minutes without adequate hearing.
Key Prayers in the Petition:
- Electoral Reforms: Dr. Paul urged the court to mandate the use of ballot papers for elections instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), citing global practices and allegations of tampering. “If 180 out of 197 countries, including 50 European nations and U. S. A.conduct elections with ballots, why does India continue to rely on tamperable EVMs?” Dr. Paul questioned, referring to statements by prominent leaders, including Elon Musk and Jagan Mohan Reddy, Chandra Babu Naidu about the vulnerability of EVMs.
- Religious Administration Reform: He argued for Hindu temples, particularly the Tirupati Balaji Temple, to be administered by Hindu priests, similar to how churches are run by Christian pastors and mosques by Muslim clerics. He pointed out the Tirupati Balaji Temple’s immense wealth—estimated at ₹4 lakh crore—and alleged political misuse of temple funds and administration.
- Disqualification of Defecting Legislators: Dr. Paul highlighted the rampant defection of elected MLAs to rival parties, violating the Anti-Defection Law under the Tenth Schedule. He demanded immediate action against such legislators, drawing attention to cases in Telangana where MLAs have shifted allegiances for personal gains.
Dismissal Without Proper Hearing
Dr. Paul expressed shock at the Supreme Court’s dismissal of his petition, which cited violations of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution. “The judiciary is the last hope for democracy, yet today, the Supreme Court did not even allow me more than few minutes to present my arguments,” he said. He added, “This is a grave miscarriage of justice. Are we abandoning the rule of law in favor of dictatorship?”
On the Need for Electoral Reforms
Dr. Paul emphasized the need for India to adopt global democratic standards. “Countries like the USA, Canada, and most of Europe conduct elections using ballots to ensure transparency. EVM tampering has been proven and reported, yet no action has been taken. How can the world’s largest democracy ignore this critical issue?”
Religious Harmony and Equality
Addressing the ongoing disputes over temple administration, Dr. Paul said, “Hindu priests must be given the same autonomy as Christian pastors and Muslim clerics in managing their places of worship. Tirupati Balaji, the second-largest religious site after the Vatican, should be declared a special territory to ensure peace and harmony among communities. Why should politicians control a temple that belongs to 1 billion Hindus?”
Call for Justice and Accountability
Dr. Paul criticized the Supreme Court’s handling of public interest cases, calling it a betrayal of the Constitution’s spirit. “The Indian judiciary was established to uphold the rights of its citizens, not to deny them a hearing. What would Mahatma Gandhi or Dr. B.R. Ambedkar say if they saw this injustice today?” he asked. Remember today is the Constitutional day but the constitution is not honored today.
He also called for an independent Election Commission to ensure fair elections and questioned the inclusion of political figures in its functioning. “How can the Election Commission be autonomous when it is influenced by politicians?” Dr. Paul remarked.
A Plea to the Nation and the World
Dr. Paul concluded with a passionate plea: “India’s democracy and secularism are at stake. The world is watching as we stray from the ideals of justice and equality. I urge all Indians, international leaders, and global media to join me in protecting our democracy.”
He also called upon citizens to pray for the judiciary and democracy, saying, “Let us pray that God Almighty will intervene and protect the fundamental rights of all Indians.”
