## Special Courts for MPs/MLAs Decided Over 2,000 Cases in 2023
Special courts for trial of criminal cases related to Members of Parliament and Members of Legislative Assembly decided more than 2,000 cases in 2023. However, a large number of cases remain pending, many for a long period.
501 candidates with criminal cases are contesting the Lok Sabha elections in the first two phases.
Out of 2,810 candidates, 501 (18%) have criminal cases, including 327 (12%) with serious criminal cases.
Candidates with criminal cases have a higher chance of winning elections compared to those without criminal cases.
High Courts need to take steps to expedite trials and monitor pending cases closely.
A model website for real-time information on the progress of trials is proposed.
The Supreme Court's directions in November 2023 aimed at fast-tracking trials are expected to lead to a significant reduction in pendency.
High Courts should call for reports on pending cases and pass appropriate orders for speedy disposal.
A model website should be created for real-time information on the progress of trials.
High Courts should closely monitor the progress of pending cases and pass suitable directions.
Overall, the focus should be on ensuring speedy and fair trials for criminal cases against MPs/MLAs to maintain a clean and transparent electoral process.