BJP, disqualified MLAs welcome EC informing SC on deferring

With the Election Commission on Thursday informing the Supreme Court that it would defer the bypolls to 15 assembly segments in Karnataka till it decides the case of disqualified Congress-JD(S) legislators, the Congress and JD(S) have raised questions on the poll body's conduct.

While disqualified MLAs termed it as a "relief", the BJP termed it as "first victory" to disqualified MLAs who had sought a stay on the bypolls.

"Supreme Court has said it will decide on the 17 disqualified MLAs and have posted (hearing) on October 22. I'm surprised that opposition is expressing doubts and speaking lightly about the court decision.We will have to wait and see what SC decides," Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said "It is relief to those (disqualified MLAs) who were anxious.What next is left to them. Today's SC decision is historical, I welcome it along with others."
This decision of Election Commission, which is a constitutional body, has demoralised the system in the country."
If disqualified MLAs can contest bypolls, what's the use of the law? Our case has only got strengthened."
Supreme Court has said nothing on any of these issues, so they are still disqualified and their situation remains the same."
Reacting to the development, a disqualified MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi expressed hope that they will get "100 per cent justice."