No immunity from prosecution if MPs and MLAs take bribe to vote or make speeches: SC

Digital Desk: In a landmark decision, a seven-judge bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, has nullified the immunity previously granted to parliamentarians for bribery related to voting in Parliament. 

This ruling overturns a 1998 verdict that shielded lawmakers from prosecution for accepting bribes in the course of legislative duties.

The court, emphasizing the erosion of probity in public life, clarified that bribery is not protected under Article 105 (2) or 194 of the constitution. This implies that parliamentarians can now be subject to criminal charges if found accepting bribes for speeches or votes on specific issues.

Chief Justice Chandrachud highlighted the importance of maintaining an environment conducive to discussions on crucial matters, asserting that Article 105 is designed for this purpose. He argued that accepting bribes compromises the integrity of parliamentary debates, as an individual legislator's immunity claim is intricately linked to the collective functioning of the house.

This decision marks a significant step towards upholding transparency and integrity in parliamentary proceedings, ensuring that the influence of bribery does not compromise the democratic principles that underpin the legislative process.