Sir — This refers to the news report, “One conviction and out you go!” (July 11). The apex court’s landmark verdict striking down Section 8(4) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which protected convicted elected representatives from disqualification, will be welcomed by the citizens, especially the legal community, and will understandably cause some ripples in the political class.
When we talk of parity for all in terms of legal application, why then should lawmakers get away with breaking the law while Government personnel stand suspended on the date of conviction itselfIJ This is injustice.
Interestingly, though, the latest salvo from the Supreme Court might create a Catch-22 situation for a establishment, dependent on a coalition, in case any of its allies is convicted and disqualified. Having said that, the apex court’s holistic judicial approach is pragmatic, will work as a deterrent to deviant behaviour and ensure probity in public life. People deserve a break from criminals in khadi.