New Delhi: Opposition parties are preparing to introduce an impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in both Houses of Parliament. Congress has started contacting other Opposition parties on the issue, ANI reported, citing sources. The notice is likely to be filed within the next two weeks.
The step comes against the backdrop of rising Opposition criticism of the Election Commission and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls now under way across the country.
Indian Express report on differences inside EC
A recent Indian Express report claimed that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had submitted written objections at least 14 times over the past 10 months. The objections related to the SIR, addition of new voters, deletion of names from electoral rolls and centralisation of voter databases.
The report led to a political row. Opposition parties cited the alleged objections as evidence of differences within the three-member poll panel. The Election Commission said differences of opinion during deliberations were a normal part of the decision-making process and maintained that all its decisions were taken in accordance with established legal procedures.
Earlier notice for removal still pending
Opposition parties had earlier sought Kumar’s removal. On April 24, 73 Opposition MPs in the Rajya Sabha submitted a notice seeking his removal over alleged misconduct. The Congress had then said the notice contained nine specific allegations. Opposition leaders and Congress sources said the earlier notice remains pending. The proposed fresh notice is expected to include new allegations.