India Election Row Intensifies as Protests Demand Chief Election Commissioner’s Resignation

Political tensions over India’s electoral process have intensified, with opposition Congress holding protests across several states and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

The protests centre on controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and allegations by opposition parties that the process has involved irregularities.

Indian police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters at some locations during nationwide demonstrations on September 25. Several protesters were also detained.

Opposition Raises Questions Over Voter Lists

Congress and other opposition groups have questioned the handling of voter-list revisions and called for greater transparency from the Election Commission.

The South China Morning Post reported that two election commissioners had raised concerns with Gyanesh Kumar over decisions related to voter-list revisions. The Election Commission has rejected suggestions of an institutional rift and maintained that its actions are lawful.

Congress has alleged that the electoral process is being manipulated to benefit the ruling BJP, while the BJP and Election Commission have rejected such allegations.

Protests Spread Across States

Demonstrations were held in several parts of India, including Delhi, Jammu, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Manipur and other states.

In some locations, police used water cannons and tear gas, while protesters were detained during attempts to march towards Election Commission offices.

The controversy has intensified debate over the independence and functioning of India’s electoral institutions ahead of upcoming state elections.