SC protects SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia, accused in a drug trafficking case, from arrest till February 23 to allow him to contest elections and carry on with campaigning. Elections in Punjab are scheduled for February 20.
SC told Punjab government about another anticipatory bail plea by another MLA who complained of FIR being registered ahead of elections. SC said, "We are in a democracy. At least allow the candidates to file nomination and contest elections. Suddenly FIRs being registered."
Punjab government counsel P Chidambaram said - "Punjab today is sinking under drug trade. Unless we (Punjab government) send a message (through Majithia case by arresting him for interrogation) and take stern action, future of your of Punjab will be damned."
SC requested Chidambaram to convey to Congress government led by Charanjit Singh Channi not to give an impression to SC that its pre-poll actions are vindictive. Majithia's counsel M Rohatgi said for six years there were thorough probes and nothing was found against Majithia.
