Why in the News?
- The Supreme Court in Sita Soren v. Union of India (2024) overturned its 1998 PV Narasimha Rao judgment.
- SC ruled that legislators cannot claim immunity under Articles 105 & 194 if they accept bribes for voting or speeches in Parliament/Assemblies.
Key Highlights of the Verdict
- Bribery is not immune – MPs/MLAs cannot evade criminal prosecution by citing parliamentary privileges.
- Two-fold test for privilege – A legislator’s privilege must:
- Be connected to the collective functioning of the House.
- Be necessary for performing legislative duties.
- Criminal courts have jurisdiction – Taking bribes is an offense, even if it violates parliamentary rules.
- Extends to presidential & Rajya Sabha elections – The privilege does not cover corrupt practices in elections.
Impact of the Judgment
- Strengthens anti-corruption efforts in politics.
- Ends misuse of parliamentary immunity to shield bribery cases.