Contending that there was a need to check growing criminalisation in politics, Rajya Sabha today unanimously passed the Representation of the People (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2013 .

The bill negates the Supreme Court directive regarding the disqualification of a legislator. Supreme Court earlier held that a person who is in jail or in police custody can not contest election to legislative bodies.

Law Minister Kapil Sibal in his reply after a discussion on the Bill said that the political class is the most accountable class in the country. He added Politicians are accountable to Parliament, to the Election Commission, to the country and to the people. Mr.Sibal, congratulated by all members for bringing the Bill.

He said after examining the Supreme Court order, Government had filed a review petition, but instead of waiting for the outcome, it felt the need to suitably address the situation.