Former Presiding Officer Apologizes for False Statements in Chandigarh Mayoral Polls

Anil Masih, the former Presiding Officer in the Chandigarh Mayoral elections, tendered an unconditional apology before the Supreme Court for making false statements regarding the tampering of ballot papers. Masih’s apology comes after a bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud initiated proceedings against him under Section 340 of CrPC.

Masih had previously invalidated eight votes by tampering with the ballot papers and had made false statements before the court. However, following the Supreme Court’s order, the votes were later validated in favor of Aam Aadmi Party candidate Kuldeep Kumar, who was declared the Mayor.

During a brief hearing, Masih’s counsel, senior lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, informed the bench that his client was tendering an unconditional apology, citing immense pressure as the reason for his actions. Rohatgi emphasized that Masih would withdraw his earlier affidavit and submit to the court’s magnanimity.

However, the opposition, represented by senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, contested the apology, arguing that mere apologies were insufficient given the gravity of Masih’s actions.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud adjourned the hearing to July 23 to further deliberate on the matter.

In his earlier affidavit, Masih had claimed that AAP leaders defaced eight ballot papers, and he was under severe mental trauma and stress, which affected his ability to respond accurately during court proceedings. Masih cited the tense atmosphere and heated arguments in court, coupled with his heavy medication, as contributing factors to his conduct.

The Supreme Court had previously declared Kuldeep Kumar as the elected candidate for the post of Mayor of Chandigarh Municipal Corporation, emphasizing the importance of free and fair elections to uphold the legitimacy and trust in democracy. The court reaffirmed the significance of local governments in addressing citizens’ daily grievances and underscored the electoral process as a vital channel for citizens to engage with representative democracy.

Masih’s apology marks a crucial step in addressing the irregularities observed in the Chandigarh Mayoral polls, highlighting the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring the integrity of electoral processes and upholding democratic principles.

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