Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said any fresh impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar will be examined according to parliamentary rules.
Key Points
- Speaker’s Statement: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said fresh impeachment motion against CEC Gyanesh Kumar will be examined as per rules.
- Opposition Protests: Opposition is demanding removal of CEC over alleged SIR irregularities.
- Election Commission Objections: CECs Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi raised objections 14 times over SIR decisions.
- Parliamentary Process: Impeachment motions must follow due process under parliamentary rules.
NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said on Thursday that any fresh impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar would be examined in accordance with parliamentary rules and procedures. This statement comes amid growing opposition protests demanding the removal of Gyanesh Kumar, who is the country’s top election officer.
The opposition has been vocal about alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. These claims have led to increased pressure on the Election Commission, with some members reportedly objecting to decisions made during the SIR process.
Election Commission’s Internal Concerns
According to reports, Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi have raised objections at least 14 times over the past 10 months regarding decisions and orders related to the SIR process. They allege that these decisions were made without their knowledge or recommendation.
The Indian Express reported on these objections, highlighting concerns within the Election Commission about potential procedural lapses during the SIR. The SIR is a critical process aimed at ensuring electoral rolls are accurate and up-to-date, making any irregularities particularly significant.
Parliamentary Procedure and Next Steps
The Lok Sabha Speaker’s statement indicates that any formal impeachment motion against Gyanesh Kumar must adhere to established parliamentary procedures. This includes the requirement for a majority vote in the Lok Sabha, as well as adherence to constitutional guidelines governing the removal of public officials.
While Birla’s comments suggest a willingness to follow due process, the actual outcome of any impeachment motion would depend on the evidence presented and the political dynamics within Parliament. The situation remains under close watch as the opposition continues to push for accountability.
