The opposition has escalated its demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid claims of electoral irregularities. The Congress held a Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on September 29, where leading figures, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and prominent leaders such as Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, were in attendance. The CWC passed resolutions calling for Gyanesh’s immediate resignation, the suspension of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and the restoration of over 13 crore names allegedly removed from the voter lists.

The CWC expressed concerns regarding reports suggesting that the electoral process had been compromised, allegedly facilitated by the RSS-BJP alliance and purportedly supported by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The meeting evoked Rahul Gandhi’s previous warnings about “Vote Chori,” highlighting issues ranging from selective Model Code of Conduct enforcement to concerns over the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

During the meeting, Congress officials raised alarms about the legitimacy of the SIR, asserting that it had resulted in the removal of millions from electoral rolls. Allegations emerged that the CEC was making unilateral decisions without adequate consultation with fellow Election Commissioners. This was exacerbated by a report from The Indian Express, which indicated that two Election Commissioners had voiced objections numerous times regarding the SIR procedures.

BJP Responds to Allegations

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) countered the opposition’s allegations, accusing Congress of undermining constitutional bodies and misrepresenting the functioning of the ECI. BJP leader Smriti Irani rebuked the opposition’s narrative concerning voter roll updates, highlighting that the ECI had clarified its verification process. She asserted that if there were duplicates or deceased individuals on the rolls, the opposition’s calls to restore such names were contradictory.

Irani referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance that while criticism is a part of democracy, attacks should not extend to core democratic institutions. She accused Congress of jeopardising the integrity of these institutions and undermining the democratic framework of India.

During the CWC meeting, Congress leaders, including General Secretary KC Venugopal, asserted that the CEC lacked the moral authority to remain in office following allegations of voter list manipulations. The Congress party indicated its commitment to escalate its protests against both the BJP and the CEC’s perceived mishandling of electoral processes.

INDIA Bloc Plans Meeting Amidst Controversy

In light of these developments, the opposition’s INDIA Bloc is scheduled to hold a significant meeting on September 30. Reports suggest that several leaders from coordinating parties will attend, discussing strategies for a nationwide protest against alleged electoral irregularities. Participants are expected to include prominent figures such as Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge from Congress, along with leaders from other opposition parties.

Among the anticipated attendees are Harendra Malik from the Samajwadi Party, TMC leaders Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee, and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, among others. This gathering reflects a concerted effort by the opposition to solidify its stance against the current electoral processes and the actions taken by the ECI under the current administration.

Moreover, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition challenging the functioning of the ECI next week. The petition, filed by Rakesh Kumar Singh, argues that decisions should reflect a collective consensus rather than be driven solely by the Chief Election Commissioner. This legal scrutiny underscores the prevailing tensions surrounding electoral governance in India.

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