CPI(M) Calls for Resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar Amid Concerns Over Voter List Reforms

Kolkata, September 23 (Daily Kiran) : The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has issued a statement calling for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. This demand follows alarming revelations by a media outlet regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, which has raised serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the Election Commission of India (ECI).

In its statement, CPI(M) emphasized the urgent need for reform within the ECI, asserting that Kumar lacks the moral authority to continue in his role. The party highlighted that the recent disclosures have intensified existing concerns raised by CPI(M), other opposition parties, and civil society organizations regarding the voter list revision and the SIR process.

Reports indicate that two of the three election commissioners have expressed objections to several decisions related to the voter list and SIR procedures. According to the law, all three commissioners are considered equal, and any disagreements should be resolved by majority or consensus. However, it appears that Kumar has disregarded this principle, imposing his views despite objections from his colleagues. These disagreements pertain to fundamental issues regarding how voters are added or removed from the electoral rolls and the implementation of the SIR.

CPI(M) also accused Kumar of falsely claiming that the SIR process is transparent and decentralized. The party’s statement pointed out that the system has become so centralized in recent months that it is unclear who is actually making the decisions. The Supreme Court has also expressed concerns over the excessive reliance on technology and the “mechanical” nature of the notice issuance process.

The CPI(M) leadership stated that the issues raised by the two election commissioners extend beyond the SIR process. They relate to institutional integrity, the democratic functioning of the Election Commission, transparency in the electoral process, excessive centralization, and the protection of universal adult suffrage.

The Polit Bureau of CPI(M) warned that the credibility of the Election Commission as a fair institution is at stake. Public trust in a corrupt Election Commission has eroded, and Gyanesh Kumar must be held accountable. He can no longer remain in office.

In addition to demanding an immediate halt to the SIR process, CPI(M) called for the restoration of the integrity and democratic functioning of the Election Commission. The party proposed that a new law be enacted to ensure transparency in the appointment of election commissioners, which would involve repealing existing legislation and adopting Supreme Court guidelines for a selection committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India.