Congress Intensifies Pressure for CEC Gyanesh Kumar's Resignation Amid Nationwide Protests

Ongoing Dispute Over CEC Gyanesh Kumar

The conflict between the Congress party and the Election Commission regarding Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar continues to escalate. The Congress has ramped up its demand for Kumar's resignation, particularly concerning the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list. To express their dissent, the party has organized protests at district headquarters across the country on September 28.

Congress asserts that it has consistently raised concerns about the SIR process and the functioning of the Election Commission. Previously, on September 25, party workers staged demonstrations in various locations, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Dehradun. In some instances, police resorted to using water cannons to disperse the protesters.

Nationwide Protests Scheduled for September 28

The Congress party has announced a phased approach to its protests. According to party officials, demonstrations and marches to district collectorates will take place on September 28, organized by district Congress committees. Units in several states, including Jharkhand and Telangana, have also reported preparations for local protests.

During these protests, the Congress will demand the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and seek a detailed explanation from the Election Commission regarding issues related to the SIR.

Understanding the SIR Controversy

A central issue in this dispute revolves around the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list. The Congress has raised questions about the SIR process and the changes made to the voter list. Party leaders have also expressed objections to certain aspects of the Election Commission's procedures.

In response, the Election Commission has defended its actions regarding the SIR, stating that the relevant orders were issued with the approval of all three election commissioners. The Commission has also labeled a purported resignation letter from Gyanesh Kumar circulating on social media as fake.

Key CWC Meeting Scheduled for September 29

Amid this ongoing controversy, a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) is set for September 29. This meeting will focus on the SIR dispute and the issues surrounding CEC Gyanesh Kumar, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expected to preside over the discussions.

Prominent party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, K.C. Venugopal, and Jairam Ramesh, are anticipated to attend. The CWC may also deliberate on upcoming political and organizational initiatives.

Election Commission's Stance

In light of the controversy, the Election Commission has clarified its position regarding the decisions related to the SIR and alleged internal disagreements. According to the Commission, the orders concerning the SIR were issued with the full approval of the Commission. They also reiterated that the resignation letter attributed to Gyanesh Kumar circulating online is not authentic.

Currently, the Congress is leveraging its protests and political pressure to voice its demands, while the Election Commission has provided clarifications regarding the allegations related to the SIR and the viral resignation letter. The outcome of the CWC meeting on September 29 may further clarify the Congress's next steps.