Girish Chodankar Challenges HC Order on Disqualification of Eight MLAs in Supreme Court

Goa | February 12, 2025

Former Goa Congress Chief Girish Chodankar has moved the Supreme Court of India challenging the Goa Assembly Speaker’s order dismissing the disqualification petitions against eight MLAs who defected from the Congress to the BJP. After an unexplained delay of over 700 days, the Speaker had dismissed Chodankar’s plea, leading him to seek justice from the apex court.

The petition, which has now been registered, is likely to be listed before the Supreme Court this week. Chodankar has urged the court to disqualify the eight MLAs from the Goa Assembly, arguing that their defection was a direct violation of the Tenth Schedule (Anti-Defection Law) of the Indian Constitution.

A Battle for Democratic Values

Chodankar’s challenge is seen as a significant legal battle, as it questions the interpretation of the Anti-Defection Law, particularly regarding the controversial defense of merger. Various High Courts across the country have taken differing stands on this issue, making it imperative for the Supreme Court to set a clear legal precedent.

“In the face of blatant defections, this petition will serve as a beacon for restoring democratic values and ensuring that the mandate of the electorate is upheld,” said Chodankar, emphasizing the urgency of judicial intervention.

The case has garnered widespread attention, as political defections have become a recurrent issue in Indian politics, often altering electoral mandates and raising questions on political accountability.

Looking Ahead

With the Supreme Court expected to take up the matter soon, all eyes are now on how the apex court will interpret the Anti-Defection Law in the current political context. The verdict could have far-reaching implications, not just for Goa, but for Indian politics at large.