Supreme Court Rejects PIL Seeking Digital Tracking of MPs and MLAs

The Supreme Court took a step towards protecting privacy rights by dismissing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Friday. The PIL had requested the government to digitally track Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) 24/7.

The bench, comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice JP Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra, questioned the feasibility of implanting a “chip” in legislators’ bodies for continuous monitoring.

Chief Justice Chandrachud warned the petitioner, Surinder Nath Kundra, of a fine of Rs 5 lakh for wasting the court’s time. He emphasized that this matter was not about ego but about efficient use of public time.

The bench highlighted the importance of privacy rights, stating that continuous digital surveillance was not feasible due to the right to privacy. They emphasized that only convicted criminals who evade justice are subjected to such monitoring.

The court also reminded that MPs and MLAs act as representatives of citizens and cannot be collectively blamed for individual actions. It reiterated that only elected lawmakers have the authority to enact laws in a democracy.

Chief Justice Chandrachud questioned the consequences of bypassing legal procedures and relying on street justice, emphasizing the importance of the judiciary.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court rejected the plea for digital monitoring of MPs and MLAs and cautioned against similar requests in the future, stating that costs may be imposed for frivolous litigation.