Opposition Alliance Demands Removal of Chief Election Commissioner in Rajya Sabha
In a significant move, opposition parties have presented a proposal in the Rajya Sabha demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The proposal highlights allegations of procedural bias and inaction regarding complaints related to Prime Minister Modi's address before the assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. With nine specific allegations documented against Kumar, the opposition argues that his continued tenure undermines the Constitution. This development raises critical questions about the integrity of the electoral process in India.
Apr 24, 2026, 17:49 IST
Opposition's Proposal in Rajya Sabha
The coalition of opposition parties introduced a new proposal in the Rajya Sabha on Friday, calling for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid allegations of procedural bias. The formal accusations against the Chief Election Commissioner include a persistent and biased enforcement of the code of conduct. The opposition has accused the Election Commission of inaction regarding complaints related to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation on April 18, prior to the assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.
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Addressing concerns raised by various parties, the notice stated that as of the date of this notice, Gyanesh Kumar has not issued any show-cause notice, advice, or public response regarding the aforementioned complaints. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and TMC leader Sagarika Ghosh submitted the notice. Ramesh mentioned on X that 73 opposition MPs in the Rajya Sabha have just presented a new proposal to the General Secretary, requesting an address to the President of India.
He stated that this address seeks the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar from his position. The allegations claim that he is associated with acts of misconduct related to actions and omissions occurring on or after March 15, 2026, which fall under Article 324(5) and Article 124(4) of the Constitution of India, as well as Section 11(2) of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, and the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
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Ramesh noted that there are now nine specific allegations against the Chief Election Commissioner, which have been thoroughly documented and cannot be denied or concealed. His continued position is seen as an attack on the Constitution. It is deeply shameful that this individual remains in office, allegedly acting at the behest of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister.