Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Jan 28: The case pertaining to the disqualification of five independent legislators after they withdrew support to the BJP-led government in the state, was adjourned by the High Court on Thursday, to Friday January 28.

After hearing the arguments which went on since morning to evening, the full bench headed by Justice Mohana Shantana Goudar, passed this order.

Senior advocate, Satyapal Jain, presenting arguments on behalf of the assembly chief whip, D N Jeevaraj and MLA C T Ravi, who are parties to the suit, argued that the independent legislators fall under the provisions of the Anti Defection Act, as they have signed the attendance register of the BJP parliamentary party meeting. He felt that the speaker has the right to disqualify these members.

Jain also argued that once an independent MLA becomes a minister, he automatically is liable to be proceeded against, as per the anti defection laws.

Advocates for the petitioners will place their arguments before the bench on Friday.