Opposition parties have stepped up their criticism against the Election Commission and its chief, citing irregularities in the Bihar voter rolls. Allegations suggest that these voter list errors are not accidental, casting doubts on the fairness of the ongoing electoral process. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has called for accountability, indicating that an impeachment motion against the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is being seriously considered in the Rajya Sabha.
Sweeping reforms came into force in 2023, significantly reshaping how India appoints its Election Commissioners. Now, a dedicated selection committee—comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a Union Cabinet Minister—nominates candidates for these crucial posts, acting under Article 324 of the Constitution.
Removing the CEC remains a formidable challenge. The Constitution stipulates that only Parliament, acting on the Supreme Court’s recommendation and under special circumstances, can take such a step. The process must be triggered by a substantial group of lawmakers (at least 50 in the Rajya Sabha or 100 in the Lok Sabha). A two-thirds majority in both houses is required before the President can act to remove the CEC. Additionally, new legal provisions established in 2023 have further strengthened the CEC’s protections, making arbitrary removals virtually impossible.
With the latest legislative updates, the tenure and autonomy of the Chief Election Commissioner are more securely safeguarded, reinforcing the impartial and independent functioning of India’s electoral system. The robust framework is designed to ensure that free and fair elections remain at the core of Indian democracy.
