Limit powers of courts, says Congress member

Naik seeks limiting powers of courts to declare laws passed by Parliament as null and void.

A Congress member Shantaram Laxman Naik on Friday sought to move a resolution in Rajya Sabha seeking to limit powers of courts to declare legislation passed by Parliament as null and void.

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Moving a private member resolution, Naik said for maintaining checks and balances, only a bench comprising not less than seven judges of the Supreme Court or not less than five judges of a High Court, could srike down parliamentary legislations.

In the backdrop of the recent tug of war between the legislature and the judiciary over demolition of illegal constructions in Delhi, Naik said court's comments on the 'House' were uncalled for.

"This is a delicate situation, we have to find a solution," he said.

Similarly, he said the Election Commission had laid down so many guidelines without the approval of Parliament.

Naik opposed de-recognition of political parties by the Election Commission.

Supporting Naik, Prabha Thakur (Cong) said different organs of the democracy should respect the sanctity and authority of each other.

Thakur said the judiciary should focus on giving faster justice to victims of terrorism, abduction and rape.