High Court dismisses petition challenging Suresh Gopi's election
The High Court dismissed the petition challenging the election of Suresh Gopi. The petition was filed by Joshi Villadam, an independent candidate from Thrissur. The petition was dismissed after Suresh Gopi's argument that the petition was not maintainable was accepted.
In the petition filed by Villadam, Suresh Gopi alleges that Suresh Gopi, his election agent and associates have committed corruption under Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
In the petition filed by Villadam, Suresh Gopi alleges that Suresh Gopi, his election agent and associates have committed corruption under Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Section 123 defines various matters that are considered 'corrupt practices' in elections in India. These include bribery, undue influence, creating enmity between different sections of citizens on the basis of religion, caste and language, and using religious appeals to solicit votes.
Joshi Villadam appeared in person. Suresh Gopi was represented by senior advocate K. Ramakumar, advocates B.N. Sivashankar, Megha Mukundeshwar and Tinu T. Joseph, Sanoj M.A., and Vishnu B. Kurup. Advocates P.R. Reena, Santosh Peter, Sumesh K.B., and Rakesh K. represented Binoy.
Binoy A.S., a leader of the All India Youth Federation and a voter from Thrissur, had filed a separate petition challenging Suresh Gopi's victory.
The High Court rejected Suresh Gopi's application to dismiss the petition at the outset on April 1. The High Court explained that Binoy's petition would stand and that it would have to be heard in detail.
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