Supreme Court Reinstates RJD Legislator Sunil Kumar Singh, Calls Bihar Council’s Expulsion ‘Excessive’

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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned the expulsion of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) legislator Sunil Kumar Singh from the Bihar legislative council, ruling that the punishment was “excessive” and “disproportionate” despite his misconduct. The court emphasized that while lawmakers must uphold decorum, the penalty imposed on Singh was too severe.

Singh was expelled in July 2024 for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during a heated debate. A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh acknowledged that his behavior was “abhorrent” and “unbecoming of a legislator” but found the punishment unjustified. Using its special powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, the court modified his expulsion to a period of suspension, during which he will not receive any financial benefits.

The Bihar legislative council defended its decision, citing Singh’s repeated misconduct and defiance. The ethics committee had recommended his removal, accusing him of mocking Nitish Kumar, undermining the panel’s members, and refusing to attend meetings or offer an apology. However, the Supreme Court ruled that while disciplinary action was warranted, outright expulsion was disproportionate to the offense.

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