AN UNDOCUMENTED WONDER : The Making of the Great Indian Elections

by S.Y. Quraishi

The High Court passed an interim order directing the Election Commission to stop all intrusive measures. While the Election Commission complied with the order, a few counter petitions were also filed by NGOs and the Citizens Forum for Electoral Integrity in favour of the EC’s actions and opposing the interim order of the High Court. The Forum for Electoral Integrity, led by the indefatigable Ms Devasahayam, displayed tremendous courage, which deserves appreciation. Finally, the Division Bench headed by the Chief Justice, while deciding on the public interest litigations, clinched the issue with a clear verdict that: ‘It is the duty on the part of the respondents (ECI) to see that the Elections Code of Conduct is scrupulously followed.’ The litigation greatly taxed the EC’s time and energy in the thick of election arrangements, not just in Tamil Nadu but in four other states as well, but ultimately, the Commission was able to stand its ground.