Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has affirmed the government’s commitment to defending the Election Commission of India (ECI), emphasising that the support extends to the integrity of the institution rather than the individuals who hold office. His remarks amidst ongoing protests allegations related to the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar due to alleged discrepancies in the electoral roll.

Rijiju stated, “We are not defending the people sitting in the Election Commission alone. We are defending the institution.” He argued that it is essential for the government to protect constitutional authorities, including the Election Commission and the Supreme Court, from what he termed as unwarranted attacks. This statement emerged against a backdrop of increasing criticism from opposition parties concerning extensive security measures implemented in Delhi.

Addressing claims of an Emergency-like situation in the national capital, Rijiju firmly denied such comparisons. He stressed that police actions, including preventive detention, are conducted within established legal frameworks and that protesters must adhere to the rule of law. “India is a free country… but we must not degrade democratic values by labelling every protest as an emergency,” he added.

Security Measures Under Scrutiny

Rijiju responded to concerns regarding the mass security deployment in Delhi, where numerous metro stations were shut down and thousands of security personnel were mobilised. He highlighted the need for the government to maintain a balance between allowing protests and ensuring the safety of the general public.

“The responsibility of the government and the agencies is not only to allow people to protest but also to safeguard the safety, security, and interests of ordinary citizens,” Rijiju explained. He claimed that protesters were attempting to impose their demands through demonstrations and reaffirmed the government’s position that public institutions would not be disrupted.

Defending the actions of the police and central armed forces, he remarked that they had shown restraint and professionalism in managing the situation. “Very humanely, our police personnel are handling the protesters,” he stated, maintaining that the government remained committed to upholding law and order.

Response to Opposition Allegations

Rijiju also responded to comments from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi concerning alleged misconduct and undermining of democratic institutions. He cautioned the public not to place undue trust in Gandhi’s assertions, suggesting a pattern of the Opposition questioning the legitimacy of electoral outcomes, particularly following the BJP’s victories in 2014 and 2019.

He emphasised that electoral achievements by opposition parties in various states countered claims that the Election Commission was biased in favour of the BJP. Rijiju described dissent as an integral part of democracy while accusing political rivals of fabricating narratives regarding the electoral process.

On the topic of the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, Rijiju dismissed allegations of targeting specific communities and affirmed the need for periodic updating of electoral records. He indicated that voters concerned about their removal from the list could pursue the proper channels for reinstatement, referencing the claims and objections process available through Form 6.

In light of the ongoing political discourse surrounding the Election Commission and recent protests, Rijiju reiterated that opposition parties are welcome to file complaints with the commission or seek judicial intervention if dissatisfied with its responses. He emphasised the government’s commitment to ethical governance and the rule of law while urging respect for constitutional authorities. His comments reflect the heightened tensions in Indian politics related to electoral integrity and dissent.

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