HC to Hear Election Petition Against Minister Gaurav Gautam on Day-to-Day Basis

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has decided to hear the election petition challenging Haryana minister Gaurav Gautam's election on a day-to-day basis, granting the minister one final opportunity to file his response.

The petition was filed by former minister Karan Singh Dalal, who has alleged that Gautam engaged in corrupt electoral practices by appealing for votes in the name of religion during his campaign.

Delayed Response from Minister 

During the hearing before Justice Archana Puri, senior advocate Mohan Jain, representing Dalal, argued that Gautam had failed to file his written statement within the timeframe prescribed under Clause 20(c) of the High Court Rules.

According to these provisions, a respondent must submit a detailed reply to the allegations at least three days before the scheduled hearing.

Jain informed the court that Gautam had been served notice on December 14, 2024, making his response due by January 6. However, the minister had not submitted his reply, prompting Jain to request that Gautam's defense rights be forfeited.

Court's Decision

After considering the submissions, Justice Puri granted Gautam a final opportunity to file his written statement within one week. The court has scheduled the next hearing for March 28, after which the proceedings will continue on a day-to-day basis without further delays. 

Allegations of Religious Appeals 

Dalal's petition specifically alleges that Gautam violated election norms by seeking votes through religious appeals. The former minister has claimed that Gautam linked his election campaign to religious sentiments and organized religious events with the clear intention of securing electoral support.

Such practices, if proven, could potentially violate election laws that prohibit candidates from using religion, race, caste, or language to influence voters. 

The day-to-day hearing format indicates the court's intention to resolve the matter expeditiously, given the serious nature of the allegations against a sitting minister in the Haryana government.