The Congress party has declared plans for protests across Maharashtra on September 28, demanding both the removal and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. This decision follows accusations from the party that Kumar has conducted himself in a biased manner, allegedly enabling the Election Commission to favour the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In an official statement, the Maharashtra Congress asserted that Kumar has purportedly undermined democratic processes and compromised the Constitution. The party’s grievances come amidst rising concerns about internal discord within the three-member Election Commission regarding critical matters pertaining to the electoral roll revision.

Allegations have surfaced over decisions related to the addition and deletion of voter names, modifications to forms for new voters, and accessibility to voter data. The Congress party has called attention to reported discrepancies in the voting lists that may have significant implications for upcoming elections.

Claims About Voter Roll Management

The Congress has raised serious questions about the management of voter rolls, claiming that the recent Special Intensive Revision exercise resulted in the removal of approximately 13 crore voters nationwide, including over 3 crore in Maharashtra alone. This development has sparked considerable debate within political circles regarding electoral integrity and transparency.

Further complicating the issue, the party alleged that around 47 lakh new voters have been added to the electoral rolls before the scheduled 2024 Maharashtra assembly elections, but their current status is reportedly unclear. These claims have intensified scrutiny of the Election Commission’s actions and the processes involved in maintaining accurate voter lists.

The party also drew comparisons to similar situations during assembly elections in Bihar and West Bengal, suggesting a pattern of voter deletions that could impact electoral outcomes. This narrative fits within the broader context of opposition criticism aimed at the electoral process in various states.

Election Commission’s Response to Allegations

Moreover, the Election Commission pointed out that modifications made to Form 6, which is employed for including names in the voters’ list, had received endorsement from the Supreme Court. This assertion aims to reinforce the legitimacy of the processes involved in voter registrations and amendments to the electoral rolls.

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