Election Commission row: What sparked controversy over SIR? Oppn demands Gyanesh Kumar’s arrest; BJP reacts | Explained
A political controversy arose after a report indicated two Election Commissioners raised objections 14 times over 10 months over decisions affecting the electoral process. Opposition parties demanded action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of electoral manipulation.
DMK president and former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has called for the immediate resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with a halt to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Stalin's demands come after media reports alleged that decisions were made without considering the objections of the other two Election Commissioners.
He also demanded a thorough investigation into the Election Commission and accountability for those responsible. The DMK and other opposition parties have consistently opposed the deletion of millions of voters from the electoral rolls under the SIR exercise, which they claim is riddled with irregularities. Stalin pointed out that Gyanesh Kumar had been acting unilaterally and in secrecy, without the agreement of the other two Election Commissioners.
He highlighted that objections to these decisions were ignored on 14 occasions within ten months. These revelations have seriously undermined the credibility of the Election Commission, as the institution is supposed to function independently and transparently. Stalin emphasized that the credibility of an apex institution that is expected to function without political interference has been severely compromised.
The DMK, along with other opposition parties, had previously moved an impeachment motion against Gyanesh Kumar, demanding his removal from office.
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