Anta by-election: staring at ‘do raaste’

Just as political parties were gearing up for a by-election in Rajasthan’s Anta assembly seat, a dramatic twist has thrown the entire process into question. Convicted and then disqualified MLA Kanwarlal Meena, who lost his seat following a criminal conviction, filed a mercy petition with the Governor, raising the possibility that the by-election may not be held at all if his sentence is reduced or pardoned.

This unexpected move has also sparked a political debate over this issue of pardon petition.

Conviction & disqualification

Meena was disqualified after being sentenced to three years in prison for pointing a pistol at a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and damaging public property during the 2005 panchayat elections. With the Supreme Court dismissing his appeal, he surrendered before the Manohar Thana court, triggering his disqualification under the Representation of the People Act.

Mercy plea & its implication

Now, in a bid to reclaim his lost seat, Meena has approached the Governor of Rajasthan with a mercy petition. If the Governor decides to pardon or commute Meena’s sentence, legal experts say it could pave the way for the restoration of his assembly membership, which will eliminate the need for a by-election in Anta altogether.

Earlier, it was reported in media that the state election department had gone ahead with preparations for a possible by-election. It had sent a formal recommendation to the Election Commission of India to schedule the vote.

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Pause button hit ?

So this development has surely led the aspirants in a wait and watch mode. Many hopefuls were expected to throw their hat in the ring of Anta by-elections are now viewing the developments with deep interest.

What lies ahead?

If the Governor accepts Meena’s petition and grants relief, it could reinstate his eligibility and void the need for a by-election. On the other hand, if the plea is rejected, the Election Commission is expected to move swiftly to set the poll date.