Former EC Ashok Lavasa: SIR May Be Legal, But It Is Not Fair

Former Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa has cautioned that statutory institutions, constitutional bodies, and governments have begun to operate on the principle that "might is right." His remarks come amid concerns over the use of legal but potentially unfair mechanisms, such as the Self-Incrimination Risk (SIR) provision, which he argues may be lawful yet not equitable.

Lavasa posed a pointed question: are deliberate efforts being made to create a situation where citizens become disenchanted with the democratic process? His comments reflect growing anxiety about the erosion of democratic norms and the fairness of institutional actions.

Without naming specific cases, Lavasa's critique underscores a broader unease about the balance between legal authority and ethical governance. He implied that legality alone is insufficient; fairness and public trust are essential for the health of democracy.

The former Election Commissioner's statement adds to a chorus of voices questioning whether recent actions by state and central institutions are undermining the democratic fabric. His emphasis on the potential for public disillusionment suggests a warning that the legitimacy of democratic institutions could be at stake if they are perceived as arbitrary or heavy-handed.