Opposition MPs Demand Removal of Chief Election Commissioner in Unprecedented Move

Opposition's Bold Step in Parliament

On Friday, opposition lawmakers submitted notices in both houses of Parliament, calling for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Reports indicate that 130 MPs from the Lok Sabha and 63 from the Rajya Sabha have signed the notice. This marks the first instance where a Chief Election Commissioner is being requested to be removed through parliamentary procedures.

The MPs have accused the election commission of serious flaws in the Special Intensive Review (SIR) process, claiming it has compromised the integrity of the electoral process.

Broad Support from Opposition Parties

Sources reveal that all constituent parties of the 'India' alliance are represented among the signatories. Members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have also added their signatures, despite the party no longer being a formal part of the opposition coalition. Additionally, some independent MPs have joined in signing the notice. According to parliamentary rules, a notice must have at least 100 signatures in the Lok Sabha and 50 in the Rajya Sabha.

Allegations Against the Chief Election Commissioner

Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the Chief Election Commissioner of aiding the ruling BJP. For several months, they have targeted the CEC regarding the Special Intensive Review of voter lists, alleging that the SIR process is designed to benefit the BJP. The notice for the CEC's removal can be submitted in either house of Parliament and must be passed by a special majority, which requires a majority of the total membership and a two-thirds majority of those present and voting.