Prez allows those in jail to contest polls

President Pranab Mukherjee has given his assent to a bill which restores the right of those in lawful custody to contest elections, reversing the July 10 verdict of the SC on the issue.

President Pranab Mukherjee has given his assent to a bill which restores the right of those in lawful custody to contest elections, reversing the July 10 verdict of the SC on the issue.

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The Representation of the People Act, 2013, was passed by both Houses of Parliament during the Monsoon session. The amended law adds a fresh line in Section 62 (5) of the RP Act to make it clear that a person cannot cease to be a voter while in detention since his or her right is only temporarily suspended.

Since the name of an individual continues to be on the electoral rolls, therefore he or she also continues to be a voter and can file nomination for an election. The amendment shall come into effect from July 10.