Delhi, February 3, 2025: The Delhi High Court has refused an urgent hearing for a PIL filed by retired Justice S.N. Dhingra against cash-based schemes promised by political parties during elections. The petitioner argued that such schemes unfairly influence voters and undermine free and fair elections. A bench led by Justices Devender Kumar Upadhya and Tushar Rao Gedela advised addressing preliminary objections before formal proceedings, stating that the matter would be considered post-election campaigning.
The PIL also urged the Election Commission to regulate these financial promises and prevent political parties from misusing voter data. The petitioner claimed such incentives disrupt democracy and constitute unethical voter inducement. While the court did not dismiss the case, it declined to fast-track the hearing, emphasizing that the issue would be examined in due course.
