Opposition Unites to Challenge Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's Position

In a groundbreaking political maneuver, opposition parties are gearing up to submit a notice for the impeachment of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. This initiative, described as a collective effort, aims to address concerns over the CEC's conduct. With support from major parties, including Congress and the TMC, the opposition is mobilizing to gather the necessary signatures for the motion. The process mirrors that of judicial removals, requiring a special majority in Parliament. West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also expressed her backing for this significant step. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding political drama.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 9, 2026, 17:46 IST

Opposition's Bold Move Against CEC

New Delhi: In a historic move, opposition parties are preparing to submit a notice aimed at the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, as reported on Monday.

Sources indicate that the draft notice is finalized and will likely be presented within the week.

A senior member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), involved in drafting the notice, emphasized that this initiative is a "100 percent team effort."

"The drafting and strategizing have been a collaborative effort among all like-minded parties. The execution in both Houses will also reflect this teamwork," the TMC leader stated.

"The chief election commissioner has significantly undermined the esteemed position he holds," the TMC representative added.

Members from the Congress party, the primary opposition, have expressed their support for the notice. Other parties within the INDIA bloc are also backing the initiative, with the notice being drafted collectively.

Opposition MPs are now tasked with gathering signatures from members across both Houses. According to parliamentary rules, a minimum of 100 signatures from Lok Sabha members and at least 50 from Rajya Sabha members is required for the notice to proceed.

The procedure for the removal of the CEC mirrors that of a Supreme Court or high court judge. Impeachment can only occur on grounds of proven misconduct or incapacity.

A motion for removal can be introduced in either House of Parliament and must secure a special majority, which includes a majority of the total membership and a two-thirds majority of those present and voting.

As per the law governing the appointment of the CEC and election commissioners, "the CEC shall not be removed from office except in the same manner and on the same grounds as a Supreme Court judge," while other election commissioners can only be removed based on the CEC's recommendation.

West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC leader Mamata Banerjee recently voiced her support for the impeachment motion against the CEC, should it be initiated by the opposition.

Banerjee is currently engaged in an indefinite protest against the removal of names during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in the state.