Supreme Court orders fresh recount for SCBA polls, to restore confidence in the process

To restore confidence in the electoral process, the Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered another round of vote recounting for the Junior Executive Member positions in the recent Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) elections.

A special bench comprising Justices Suryakant and K V Vishwanathan ordered the recounting of votes to eliminate any lingering concerns after claims of irregularities surfaced.

Though a full recount for all posts had already taken place on Monday following allegations of bogus voting, the Court felt that an additional recount limited to the nine Junior Executive Member posts would help restore confidence in the process.

The bench acknowledged the efforts of the SCBA’s Election Committee, saying it had done a commendable job under pressure. However, the Court emphasised the importance of ensuring absolute transparency and fairness, particularly for the younger members of the Bar.

"We have impressed upon the Election Committee to conduct one more round of recounting to satisfy aggrieved members," the Court stated.

The Bench directed that the recount be conducted in the presence of candidates or their nominees, with strict instructions that no interference would be tolerated. The Court warned that any misconduct during the process would be met with serious consequences. The Secretary General of the Supreme Court was also asked to assist in supervising the recount.

During the hearing, Senior Advocate Dr Adish C. Aggarwala, a losing presidential candidate who had accused the Election Committee of bias also faced the wrath of the court. Calling the remarks frivolous and scandalous, the court warned against making baseless allegations that could harm the institution’s integrity.

"We advise Bar members to refrain from indulging in such propaganda. It affects the dignity of the institution," the Court recorded.

"Mr. Aggarwala, you have been a voter. You know how hard the committee works in the summer heat. If people begin browbeating them, we will not tolerate it. They are officers of this Court, and we will protect them,” Justice Vishwanathan added.

The SCBA elections, held on May 20, had seen Vikas Singh win the presidency over Dr. Adish Aggarwala and Pradeep Rai. Rahul Kaushik was elected Vice-President, and Pragya Baghel became the new Secretary.

India