ANOKH SINGH vs PUNJAB STATE ELECTION COMMISSION

The Supreme Court upheld the Punjab and Haryana High Court's ruling that the office of a Lambardar constitutes an 'office of profit', disqualifying incumbents from contesting elections for the Gram Panchayat under relevant provisions. Conversely, the Court affirmed that Anganwari workers do not hold an 'office of profit' and are eligible to contest elections. The decision clarified the applicability of the term 'office of profit' in the context of local body elections, affirming the validity of the High Court's memorandum regarding Lambardars while quashing it for Anganwari workers.