Political Developments Today: Delhi Assembly Campaigning Ends; SC May Hear Kumbh Stampede Plea
Parliament to Review Waqf Bill Report; Delhi HC to Hear Defamation Case Involving Atishi
The high-stakes campaigning for the Delhi Assembly elections is set to come to an end on Monday, with top political leaders from the BJP, Congress, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) gearing up for final rallies. The BJP will be represented by Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, while senior Congress leaders will also take to the stage to address voters.
With a total of 699 candidates contesting across 70 constituencies, the election on February 5 will determine the next government in the capital. The results will be counted on February 8. The AAP is hoping to secure a third consecutive term, while the BJP is aiming to return to power in Delhi after a 27-year hiatus. The Congress, which once dominated the political landscape in Delhi, is working to regain its influence.
Supreme Court to Hear Kumbh Stampede Plea
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a petition on Monday regarding the tragic stampede that occurred during the Maha Kumbh Mela in January, resulting in at least 30 deaths and 60 injuries. The petition, filed by advocate Vishal Tiwari, seeks the implementation of safety regulations and guidelines to prevent such incidents at religious gatherings.
The plea has named the Centre and state governments as respondents, urging them to collaborate in ensuring the safety of devotees. It advocates for the establishment of facilitation centers in Prayagraj to assist pilgrims during emergencies and the installation of multilingual signage and announcements to guide attendees. The petition also highlights the importance of upholding the fundamental rights of equality and life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Waqf Bill Panel Report to Be Tabled in Parliament
On Monday, the report of the joint parliamentary committee reviewing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill will be presented in the Lok Sabha. The report, which has been adopted by a majority vote of the committee, includes amendments suggested by BJP members and has sparked significant controversy.
Opposition parties have criticized the report, accusing the ruling BJP of attempting to undermine Waqf boards and erode the constitutional rights of the Muslim community. BJP members argue that the proposed amendments aim to bring transparency and accountability to the management of Waqf properties.
Delhi HC to Hear Defamation Case Involving Atishi
The Delhi High Court will hear a plea from BJP leader Praveen Shankar Kapoor, challenging the dismissal of his defamation case against Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. Kapoor has contested a lower court’s decision to quash the defamation complaint and the summons issued against Atishi, arguing that the judge overstepped his authority by making political judgments.
Kapoor alleges that the special judge's ruling was politically motivated and denied him the opportunity for a fair trial. The matter will be heard by Justice Vikas Mahajan on Monday.
As these political developments unfold, all eyes will be on the upcoming elections, legal battles, and ongoing debates about governance and accountability.