Hyderabad: The Supreme Court on Friday directed Telangana Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar to file an affidavit within two weeks on action taken in cases concerning MLA disqualification.
During the hearing, the apex court examined petitions linked to alleged defections, which often raise the issue of MLA disqualification in the legislative assembly process. Consequently, the Bench adjourned the matter for further hearing after two weeks. The court said it expected clarity on pending disqualification decisions.
Meanwhile, senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for the Speaker, told the court that decisions had already been issued in seven cases. He said delays followed the Speaker’s eye surgery. He also pointed to a recent change in the Secretary General.
However, Singhvi sought additional time to complete the process. He argued that the Speaker required more time as the remaining issues related to MLA disqualification had not yet been resolved.
Supreme Court gives Speaker final deadline
At this stage, the Supreme Court expressed displeasure over the delay, reiterating the importance of prompt resolution in MLA disqualification cases. The Bench noted that it had already granted sufficient time.
Therefore, the court said it was giving the Speaker a final opportunity. It directed him to decide the remaining cases regarding disqualification of MLAs within two weeks.
Further, the Bench asked the Speaker to submit an affidavit within the same period. The affidavit must explain the steps taken on the pending petitions, especially those involving MLA disqualification matters.
Finally, the court adjourned the matter for further hearing after two weeks. In summary, these developments underscore the urgency concerning MLA disqualification decisions in Telangana.