SC rejects K Babu's plea; allows HC to continue trial proceedings in Tripunithura election case

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has granted permission for the Kerala High Court to continue trial proceedings against MLA K Babu in a case registered over the complaint filed by M Swaraj. 

The CPM's leader challenged the credibility of Babu's electoral victory in the Tripunithura assembly constituency. By dismissing Babu's plea, the apex court agreed to the Kerala High Court ruling that Swaraj's plea would remain relevant.   

CPM leader moved the court seeking for Babu's election to be declared null and void on the ground that the Congress leader had campaigned by resorting to corrupt practices by wooing Hindu voters in the name of the Sabarimala controversy. 

Earlier, the Supreme Court issued a notice in July 2023 and later stayed the proceedings in the High Court till disposal of the Babu's appeal. Meanwhile, the High Court will commence proceedings in the case on February 19. 

Advocates Chander Uday Singh and Romy Chacko appeared for Babu and advocates PV Dinesh and PS Sudheer appeared for Swaraj.