New Delhi:

The Supreme Court has decided to monitor courts specifically set up in states to fast-track criminal cases against legislators. A three-judge bench led by Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it would hence forward monitor compliance of court orders to ensure that the 12 courts function effectively. The move is part of SC’s attempts to clean up the political system and help those falsely accused to contest elections with honour restored.

The Supreme Court decision came after the law ministry informed it that 12 special courts have been set up in different states to try lawmakers on a priority. The bench sought to know from state chief secretaries and high court registrars-general whether the courts were enough or more were needed. The Supreme Court bench also sought to know the number of cases which would have to be referred to special courts. The information sought would have to be submitted by October 10.

The law ministry had in an earlier affidavit told the Supreme Court that in states where number of criminal cases against MPs and MLAs were less than 65, regular courts would try fast track them.

Eleven states have set up 12 special courts. They are two in Delhi and one each in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar West Bengal, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The Supreme Court bench wants the courts to function effectively.

It has also sought information about the lack of infrastructure or personnel which may hamper their functioning.