Supreme Court Refuses Madhu Koda's Plea to Stay Conviction

The Supreme Court has denied former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda's request to stay his conviction in a coal block allocation case, hampering his ability to contest the upcoming Assembly elections. Koda had cited changes and potential prejudice against him, but the court upheld the high court's earlier decision.

In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court on Friday turned down the plea of former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda, who sought a stay of his conviction in a coal block allocation irregularities case. This decision prevents Koda from contesting in the forthcoming Assembly elections in the state.

Represented by his counsel, Koda argued for the reconsideration of his inability to participate in elections since his conviction. However, the apex court remained unconvinced, emphasizing that multiple factors must be assessed to justify a stay on conviction. Senior Advocate RS Cheema appeared on behalf of the CBI during the proceedings.

Koda's plea, filed through advocate Yoothica Pallavi, contested a Delhi High Court order dated October 18, 2024, that dismissed his application for a stay. The petition argued that the single judge failed to recognize the electoral disadvantages faced by Koda and the Ho Community from the Kolhan Region, a backward area in Jharkhand. Despite these points, the Supreme Court upheld the high court's decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)