The Supreme Court of India today once again restored the sanctity of apex court by reducing the 15-day window given by the Governor to BJP Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa to prove his majority. SC order ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 PM on Saturday. The decision of SC has somewhat curtail the chances of horse trading and muscle flexing by the ruling party. Earlier the decision of Governor to give 15 day to B S Yeddyurappa to prove his majority has raised eyebrows. Many saw it as an open invitation to Mr Yeddyurappa and BJP to indulge in horse trading to buy MLAs.
The apex court also asked the newly elected government not to take any major policy decision till it proves majority in the House. It also ordered authorities including the DGP to ensure law and order outside the Karnataka Assembly. These initiatives will reduce the chances of influencing opposition MLAs through government programmes and schemes. The decision of SC has been termed historic by the opposition parties. It has greatly restored the trust of the people of India on apex court. In the last few months functioning of Supreme Court has come under intense scrutiny. Some of the senior judges revolted against Chief Justice of India Dipak Mishra which raised serious question mark over integrity of CJI and SC. Another low point came when opposition parties launched impeachment motion against CJI. All these have hurt the image of the SC. However, today’s judgment is a proof that constitution of India continues to be safe in the hands of Supreme Court.