MANOJ NARULA vs UNION OF INDIA

The Supreme Court emphasized that democracy, as a fundamental feature of the Constitution, is incompatible with corruption, particularly in high places, as it undermines the rule of law and public trust. The Court reiterated the necessity of free and fair elections, asserting that voters must have the option to reject candidates through a 'None of the Above' (NOTA) provision, thereby compelling political parties to nominate candidates of high moral and ethical standards. The judgment was delivered in the context of a writ petition under Article 32 challenging the appointment of ministers involved in serious crimes, highlighting the need for integrity in governance.