National News

State of Karnataka and Anr. v. Prathik Parasrampuria

August 22 , 2026 1 hrs 0 min 7 0

The Supreme Court, in State of Karnataka & Anr. v. Prathik Parasrampuria, issued directions to curb the use of unaccounted money in elections.
The case arose from the 2014 Lok Sabha bye-election in Bellary, Karnataka, where ₹20.48 lakh in cash and other materials were seized from Prathik Parasrampuria.
The Court directed that election-related cash or asset seizures must be reported to the District Magistrate (DM), Additional District Magistrate (ADM) or competent court within 24 hours, with written reasons.
Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) detecting cash above ₹10 lakh must immediately inform the Income Tax authorities.
Investigations into election-related offences should be completed within one year; delays must be recorded and reported to the Election Commission of India (ECI) through quarterly progress reports.
High Court approval is mandatory before withdrawing election-related criminal cases against candidates, and High Courts were directed to designate special courts for speedy disposal of such cases.
The ECI and State Governments were directed to submit compliance reports by November 18, 2026.