A finding of corrupt practice and a statutory disqualification are distinct steps

The High Court found corrupt practices under Sections 123(3) and 123(4). It declared the election void on that basis. It also imposed a six-year disqualification in its operative order. The Supreme Court distinguished the finding from the consequence of disqualification. The Act specifies the procedure and authority for the latter. A court must not conflate proof of corrupt practice with a separate statutory decision. The judgment addressed the improper exercise of disqualification power. The statutory allocation of responsibility must be respected. K.M. Shaji v. M. V. Nikesh Kumar & Ors. | 2026 INSC 111