Minister in poll body selection panel fails impartiality test: Justice Datta

In a split verdict, Justice Datta has ruled that including a minister in the panel selecting election commissioners fails the 'perception test' for impartiality. The judge noted that a minister cannot be expected to act independently of the Prime Minister, as both share collective responsibility in government.

Justice Datta stated that the inclusion of a Cabinet minister undermines the independent character required of the selection process. The observation raises concerns about the structural independence of bodies tasked with overseeing elections in India.