Verdict May Be Delayed, Team Pilot's Last-Minute Plea Accepted

A much-anticipated court verdict on whether Sachin Pilot and other rebel Congress leaders can be disqualified by the Speaker is likely to be delayed. The Rajasthan High Court has allowed team Pilot's eleventh-hour request to add the centre to the case so it can weigh in on whether the anti-defection law applies to them. Yesterday, the Supreme Court refused to stop the High Court from delivering the verdict that is likely to impact the revolt-hit Congress government in Rajasthan, saying the "voice of dissent" cannot be suppressed in a democracy. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot indicated that he is preparing for a floor test as he met the Governor last evening.