Election Commission row LIVE: EC faces fresh credibility crisis amid new allegations against CEC
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Opposition parties on Wednesday (September 23, 2026) called for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar following an Indian Express report that said Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had formally raised objections at least 14 times over the past 10 months.
According to the report, the two commissioners alleged that key decisions were being taken in the name of the full Election Commission without their knowledge, with some being described as “unauthorised and illegal”.
The revelations have triggered a political uproar, with opposition leaders calling for CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation, while Sandhu and Joshi have not publicly commented on the report. The Election Commission, however, said “differing views” are part of its decision-making process. The report comes as the poll panel undertakes a controversial nationwide revision of the electoral database.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (September 24) alleged that elections in India were being “rigged” and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and CEC Gyanesh Kumar of acting as “deshdrohis” (traitors) by allegedly undermining voters’ rights.
Election Commission defends its decisions, stating dissent highlights only one side while affirming compliance with laws and transparency.
Former Election Commissioners urge ECI to disclose decision-making details, emphasizing majority backing and transparency amid ongoing objections.
EC dissent row: Opposition targets Gyanesh Kumar. Catch live updates on September 24 2026
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