The Delhi High Court has rejected four petitions demanding re-polling for the Bar Council of Delhi (BCD) elections, initially conducted on February 21, 22, and 23. The petitioners argued for either a re-poll or annulment of the elections, following previous decisions by a High Power Election Supervisory Committee that also declined to recommend any further action.

High Court Issues Strict Directives

Despite dismissing the petitions, the court issued several key directives aimed at enhancing the transparency and integrity of the electoral process. The Division Bench, comprising Justices Anil Kshetrapal and Tejas Karia, stated there was “no merit” in the petitions and reiterated the existing guidelines. The judges ordered that the counting of votes should restart from where it was halted, adhering to a prior interim Supreme Court order issued on May 18, 2026.

Before the counting resumes, the High Court mandated that all ballot papers, currently stored in unsecured baskets, must be transferred to lockable boxes. These boxes are required to remain locked during breaks and at the end of each counting session. This step ensures additional security for the ballots during the counting process.

Moreover, the court directed the installation of a high-resolution camera to oversee the counting table. This camera will capture each ballot paper clearly, ensuring full visibility during the process. The counting will also be continuously recorded and live-streamed to all candidates and their representatives present in the courtroom, with access available through platforms like YouTube and the High Loop App.

Enhanced Monitoring Measures Proposed

As part of the efforts to maintain the sanctity of the BCD elections, the High Court required that the Election Committee and the Returning Officer review the existing CCTV system. This system, installed on the 7th floor of the S-Block of Delhi High Court, must guarantee that all counting activities are fully monitored. Notably, the cameras should be positioned to capture every significant step involving ballot handling.

The court also asserted that no counting personnel should be associated with Prabodh Kumar, emphasising the need for transparency. All counting staff must undergo thorough verification processes. They are to be issued photo-identity cards and are additionally required to submit an undertaking declaring that they hold no conflicts of interest regarding any contesting candidates.

Those candidates who contested the BCD elections, including Advocate Rudra Vikram Singh, had initially brought these concerns before the High Court. Following the recent court rulings, the counting process is expected to resume once all security measures—such as the installation of CCTV cameras, lockable ballot boxes, and the finalisation of counting staff—are complete. The Returning Officer must inform all concerned parties about the date and time for the resumption of counting at least 24 hours in advance, signalling steps towards a more secure electoral process.

Sawal-Jawab

Will there be a re-polling for the BCD elections?

No, the Delhi High Court has rejected the petitions for re-polling and affirmed the existing election process.

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