New Delhi, 18-03-2024: On Monday, March 18, the Supreme Court delivered a decisive verdict, rejecting the plea put forth by prominent industry associations, including the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), to defer the disclosure of electoral bond unique identification numbers.
These alpha-numeric identifiers are crucial for unveiling the donors behind political contributions. Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud dismissed the plea, citing that it was presented after the judgment had been passed, and declined to entertain any further discussion on the matter. Additionally, the court declined a petition from Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Adish Aggarwala, who sought suo motu review of the electoral bonds judgment. The apex court had previously directed the State Bank of India (SBI) to divulge the unique identification numbers of electoral bonds, revealing the donors to various political parties. Despite attempts by advocates to intervene, including Mukul Rohatgi representing the industry bodies, and Mathews Nedumpara, the court maintained its stance. The exchanges in the courtroom grew heated, with the CJI reprimanding Nedumpara for his conduct.
Furthermore, the court addressed the ECI’s request to return sealed envelopes containing electoral bond details, opting to disclose the alpha-numeric numbers and listing SBI in the case. These developments stem from the Supreme Court’s directive to SBI to furnish donor details and donation amounts to the ECI, emphasizing transparency in political funding.