‘Decision To Name New CEC Now Disrespectful, Discourteous’: Rahul Gandhi

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi has expressed strong disapproval of the Central Government’s decision to appoint a new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) – Gyanesh Kumar – while the Supreme Court is poised to hear petitions challenging the legislation governing such appointments. Gandhi characterized this move as both “disrespectful” and “discourteous,” particularly given the timing of the appointment just days before the Supreme Court’s hearing.

In his dissent note, Gandhi emphasized that the committee responsible for appointing election commissioners represents a “flagrant violation” of the Supreme Court’s order. This committee includes the Leader of the Opposition, the Prime Minister, and a Union Minister selected by the Prime Minister. Gandhi’s dissent is particularly significant as he is a member of this committee, which is tasked with selecting the new election commissioners and the CEC.

Gandhi said that the integrity of the Election Commission hinges on an independent process for selecting its leaders, free from executive interference. He pointed out that the Supreme Court’s ruling in March 2023, which established a committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India for the appointment of the CEC, was a reflection of the broader concerns shared by millions of voters regarding the integrity of the electoral process in India.

By bypassing this Supreme Court order and excluding the Chief Justice of India from the appointment committee, Gandhi argued that the Modi Government has intensified the apprehensions of countless voters about the integrity of the electoral process. He stated, “By violating the Supreme Court order and removing the Chief Justice of India from the committee, the Modi Government has exacerbated the concerns of hundreds of millions of voters over the integrity of our electoral process.”

Gandhi further criticized the timing of the appointment, noting that the Supreme Court was set to deliberate on the matter in less than 48 hours. He described the decision to appoint a new CEC at this juncture as a blatant disregard for the institutions that uphold democracy and the foundational leaders of the nation. He referenced Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who had warned against executive interference in the democratic processes of India while addressing the Constituent Assembly. Gandhi’s remarks underscore the historical context of the ongoing struggle for an independent electoral process in the country.

The Congress leader’s comments come amid growing concerns about the independence of the Election Commission and the potential for political interference in its operations. The appointment of a new CEC, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s impending review of the legislation, raises questions about the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

As the political landscape in India continues to evolve, Gandhi’s dissent highlights the critical importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring that the processes governing elections remain free from undue influence. The ongoing debate surrounding the appointment of the CEC and the role of the Election Commission in upholding the democratic framework of the country is likely to remain a focal point in the lead-up to future elections.

In conclusion, Rahul Gandhi’s strong stance against the government’s decision to appoint a new Chief Election Commissioner while the Supreme Court is set to hear related petitions reflects a broader concern for the integrity of India’s electoral process. His emphasis on the need for an independent Election Commission free from executive interference resonates with the historical warnings of founding leaders and underscores the importance of maintaining democratic principles in the face of political challenges.