POLLING PANEL DIFFERENCES
INDIA bloc march: EC says no party requested meeting till 4 pm
The Commission said it learnt through the media that during the march of certain political parties towards the commission headquarters, some MPs wanted to meet the poll panel along with their delegation.
West Bengal bypolls: Over 70 pc voter turnout recorded in Nandigram, Rejinagar till 3 pm
Bypolls in Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly seats in West Bengal saw over 70 percent voter turnout. Polling began at 7 am and continued until 6 pm amidst mostly peaceful conditions. The Nandigram seat is significant due to its historical land acquisition movement, and the BJP has fielded Hasirani Rath. Multiple candidates from different parties are contesting, contributing to a complex political landscape.
Barricades, slogans and a gatecrash: INDIA bloc’s march to EC turns dramatic
Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, protested against the Election Commission's practices. They were stopped by police while attempting to reach the Election Commission headquarters. Many leaders were detained during the protest, highlighting tensions regarding electoral roll irregularities. The protest coincided with recent Supreme Court observations questioning the Election Commission's decisions. The Opposition plans further actions, including a major rally on November 1 to address their concerns.
‘Gyanesh, it’s done bro’: INDIA bloc MPs march to EC, demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation
Opposition MPs, including important leaders, protested near Parliament demanding Gyanesh Kumar's resignation over electoral issues. They were stopped by police while marching towards the Election Commission headquarters. The protest followed recent Supreme Court remarks regarding changes to the voter registration process. Opposition leaders accused Kumar of undermining public trust in the Election Commission. The MPs questioned security measures surrounding Parliament as they aimed to peacefully voice their concerns.
SC issues notice to Centre, EC on plea seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s suspension, may annul decisions if they breached law
The Supreme Court has issued notices regarding a plea seeking the suspension of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Opposition parties have raised concerns over the unilateral decisions made during the electoral rolls revision process. Protests have occurred in multiple states, demanding Kumar's resignation and an end to the Special Intensive Revision exercise. The Election Commission maintains that its decisions were reached unanimously despite internal disagreements.
CEC 'betrayed' Constitution at behest of PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah: Congress after SC notice to EC, Centre
Congress on Monday accused Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar of violating the Constitution and acting at the behest of PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, after the Supreme Court sought responses from the Election Commission and Centre on a plea challenging its decision-making process.
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"Modified Form 6 not approved by us": CJI observes on modified form for enrolling new voters
The Supreme Court asserted that it has not approved any modified version of Form 6 for voter enrollment. During a hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized the importance of verifying who modified the form. Allegations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar were also discussed, claiming he misrepresented court proceedings. The petition argued that the Election Commission's decisions should be made collectively, not unilaterally.
Proves all institutions working without fear, democracy in action: BJP on SC notice on pleas against EC
BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra emphasised the Supreme Court's issuance of notices as evidence of independent institutional functioning. He noted that the court's actions followed standard democratic and judicial processes while involving necessary discussions. Patra addressed previous claims of fear and dictatorship, asserting the existence of a democratic atmosphere in the country. He highlighted that differences among Election Commissioners signify healthy democratic discourse and decision-making processes.
SC to hear on Oct 5 pleas for suspension of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, undoing 'unauthorised' actions
The Supreme Court plans to hear pleas regarding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's alleged unilateral decisions and actions. Petitioners Rakesh Kumar Singh and Shailendra Mani Tripathi challenge Kumar's adherence to collective decision-making principles. They seek his suspension pending a final ruling and the appointment of officials based on consensus.
Wisest thing CEC can do is to resign: P Chidambaram on SIR row
P Chidambaram has called for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's resignation due to ongoing controversies and internal dissent. He emphasizes that opposition protests will escalate until Kumar steps down. Allegations have been made regarding improper deletions and potential bias in the voter roll revisions process. The Election Commission asserts that all actions are conducted according to due process and are unanimously approved.
16 states await SSR, Hegde case, Attorney General opinion at centre of ECI rift
Both Election Commissioners -- Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi -- are learnt to have interpreted that the AG opinion and Hegde case inputs favoured resuming the decades-old convention of annual SSR, which was paused after 2024, skipped in 2025 and is yet to be announced in 2026, already late given the usual announcement timeline of May-July.
March fest in October: Opposition & 'cockroaches' to hit streets over EC row, Gyanesh Kumar's resignation
The opposition alliance, known as INDIA bloc, will conduct protests against the Election Commission from October 2. This includes district-level marches, an appointment with the President, and other demonstrations planned throughout October. The Cockroach Janta Party will also engage in a Jail Bharo Andolan at Shivaji Park, Mumbai, on the same date. Both groups are demanding transparency in electoral processes and reforms in election governance.
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari targets Mamata over Delhi visit, says she has 'Jamaat in one hand, dimagi naxals in other'
In a pointed critique, Suvendu Adhikari slammed Mamata Banerjee for her planned trip to Delhi for the INDIA bloc meeting, alleging she is conspiring with CPI(M) leaders on key electoral issues. This collaboration aims to push for accountability from Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The upcoming Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls have heightened political tensions. Additionally, Adhikari expressed support for the Calcutta High Court's ruling on the BJP candidate's nomination affidavit.
CEC 'puppet' of Modi govt, has no right to remain in office: Kharge at CWC meet, says PM should resign on moral grounds
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has called for the immediate removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He accused Kumar of acting under pressure from the Prime Minister and alleged discrepancies in the electoral rolls. The Congress Working Committee discussed the matter and outlined demands for transparency in the electoral process. An inquiry has been suggested regarding evidence of irregularities and conspiracies to disenfranchise voters.
CWC meets on SIR row, to prepare roadmap for ramping up pressure on CEC, govt
Top Congress leaders are preparing to confront Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar regarding alleged irregularities in the Election Commission. The Congress Working Committee is prioritizing this issue, which impacts the democratic framework of the country. Former party chiefs Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are participating in these discussions to formulate a strategy. The opposition INDIA bloc also plans to convene and address this significant issue in Parliament.
JP Nadda targets Rahul Gandhi over ECI row, accuses opposition of ‘confusion’
Union minister JP Nadda criticized the Congress and opposition leaders for their allegations against the Election Commission of India. He accused them of attempting to vitiate the political atmosphere and disrupt the country’s development. Nadda stated that independent institutions have rejected the opposition's claims, highlighting the integrity of the Election Commission. The opposition, including leaders like Rahul Gandhi, has been urged to address public interests.
Congress to hold CWC meet on Tuesday to chalk out strategy for CEC's ouster
Mallikarjun Kharge has summoned a Congress Working Committee meeting to strategise over the removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar over concerns regarding alleged biases within the Election Commission related to voter enrollment processes.
CEC 'front for diabolical PM-HM duo', affront to Constitution: Congress
Congress has demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar for violating the Constitution regarding citizenship issues. Jairam Ramesh criticized the Election Commission of India's role in determining citizenship, referencing a former Supreme Court judge. He highlighted concerns about recent adjustments made to Form 6 that may disenfranchise young voters. Ramesh described the Commission's proposed measures regarding electoral rolls as insufficient and ineffective.
'Throwing mud on EC amounts to throwing mud on democracy': BJP's Prakash Reddy amid SIR row
BJP leader Prakash Reddy criticized Opposition parties for attacking the Election Commission of India. He explained that such actions undermine democracy and constitutional integrity. Reddy emphasized that individuals should respect institutional functions and not disrupt them. He also refuted claims of dissent within the Election Commission regarding electoral processes. Opposition parties are expected to meet to discuss their grievances over the Commission's functioning.
Ramdas Athawale backs CEC Gyanesh Kumar, says opposing electoral transparency means opposing democracy
Ramdas Athawale has spoken out in defense of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid demands for his resignation. He argues that the Election Commission must operate independently to ensure transparent electoral rolls. Athawale emphasized the importance of removing deceased voters and suggested an investigation into irregular voter registrations. He criticized the opposition for its consistent demands for resignations, calling for more patience.
Caught Zzz-ing with first-time voters
The Election Commission is currently attempting to address issues regarding electoral roll updates and voter registration. Recent delays have affected the inclusion of new voters, especially young individuals. The annual Summary Special Revision was stalled, leading to a disruption in the registration process. Officials are now directed to implement a special enrollment drive for first-time voters. The commission's failure to maintain a timely process continues to raise concerns among stakeholders.
SIR controversy: EC says agendas will be shared ahead of meetings, minutes to be issued
Gyanesh Kumar CEC Row news: The Election Commission announced its decision regarding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls on Saturday. All meetings will now have agendas circulated in advance, and minutes will be published post-meeting. Unanimous approval was given for the nationwide exercise, which has also been upheld by the Supreme Court. The process will simplify how voters address notices regarding discrepancies.
Congress takes out rally in Kolkata seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar's arrest; police stop it midway
Congress staged a significant rally in Kolkata, calling for the arrest of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, driven by worries surrounding the electoral process's fairness. Authorities stepped in to halt the procession to avoid traffic chaos, leading to protesters burning an effigy of the CEC, while vehemently demanding his resignation. The Election Commission defended itself, highlighting that disagreements among commissioners are a standard aspect of their functions.
Congress workers take out march in Patna, seek CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation
In a heated demonstration, Congress activists called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing the Election Commission of being swayed by political leaders. Water cannons were used by the police to block the protesters from reaching the polling office. The group stressed the need to protect voting rights for Gen Z, while the Election Commission asserted that varied opinions are a standard part of its deliberative process.
Manipur Cong stages protest, demands CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation
Congress members held a protest in Imphal, Manipur, demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's resignation and accountability. They expressed concerns about the revision of electoral rolls targeting Gen Z voters and raised slogans. Following a newspaper report, tensions grew between commissioners over decisions made without their knowledge. The Election Commission defended its processes, asserting all its orders follow established protocols.
Assam CM Himanta backs CEC, calls charges against Gyanesh Kumar 'political campaign'
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has dismissed allegations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar as political campaigns. He emphasized that the Election Commission operates based on consensus or majority opinion among its members. Recent reports indicated internal disagreements among election commissioners regarding certain decisions. The Election Commission defended itself by stating that differing views are standard in institutional deliberations.
Congress Working Committee to meet on September 29 with SIR row on agenda
The Congress Working Committee will meet on September 29 to discuss strategies against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The meeting will focus on increasing pressure for Kumar's removal and addressing the government's role in the electoral process. Recent reports highlighted differences among Election Commission members regarding the SIR implementation. Congress has accused the government of targeting Gen Z and demanded immediate action.
Election Commissioner appointment law: The case on India's top election body before the Supreme Court, the controversy and what comes next | Explained
The Supreme Court has delivered a split verdict on petitions challenging the 2023 law governing the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners. The case traces back to the 2015 Anoop Baranwal petition and raises questions over the selection panel, Election Commission independence, and what happens next.
Differences among ECs part of democratic deliberations, says BJP
BJP has defended the Election Commission of India and emphasized its democratic functioning in recent reports. The party highlighted diverse opinions among election commissioners during official discussions as a positive aspect. They argued that this behavior contrasts sharply with opposition claims of a dictatorial poll panel. The statements from BJP reinforce the notion that ECI upholds democratic principles effectively.
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