Senate moves to stop high courts from entertaining pre election matters

The Indian Senate has moved to pass a bill that aims to prevent the country's high courts from entertaining pre-election matters, in an effort to ensure free and fair elections.

The bill, which was introduced in the Senate on Monday, seeks to amend the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to prohibit high courts from taking up pre-election matters, such as disputes over electoral rolls, voting rights, and candidate nominations, until after the elections have been held.

The move is seen as a response to the increasing number of pre-election disputes that have been filed in high courts in recent years, which have often led to delays and disruptions in the electoral process.

The bill is supported by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party, and is expected to be passed by the Senate with a majority.

The bill's proponents argue that it will help to ensure that elections are held in a free and fair manner, and that the outcome is not influenced by court decisions.

However, some critics have raised concerns that the bill may limit the ability of voters to seek justice in cases of electoral malpractice, and that it may be used to suppress dissenting voices.

The bill is expected to be sent to the President for assent after it is passed by the Senate.