Impeachment Motion Against CEC Gyanesh Kumar Rejected by Rajya Sabha Chairman
Move signed by 193 MPs dismissed under Justices (Inquiry) Act; opposition had alleged bias in electoral processes
The impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has been rejected by the Rajya Sabha Chairman, bringing an end to proceedings initiated by opposition members.
The motion, which had been introduced in the Rajya Sabha on March 12 and signed by 193 Members of Parliament, was examined in detail before being declined. The Chairman invoked powers under the Justices (Inquiry) Act, 1968, to reject the proposal after evaluating all relevant aspects.
With this decision, the tenure of the Chief Election Commissioner remains secure, and no further action will be taken on the impeachment notice.
The opposition had sought Kumar’s removal, alleging biased conduct, misconduct and irregularities in the discharge of his duties. Among the key concerns raised were claims of electoral bias, discriminatory practices and alleged interference in voter rights.
Parties also flagged issues related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in states such as Bihar and West Bengal, alleging that the exercise had led to disenfranchisement of several voters. The notice further claimed that the actions of the Election Commission favoured the ruling party at the Centre.
To support their arguments, opposition members cited various judicial observations and called for safeguarding the impartiality of the electoral process.
The rejection of the motion is being viewed as a significant development, reinforcing the existing constitutional framework governing the functioning and independence of the Election Commission.