New Delhi, August 18 — The Opposition’s INDIA bloc is weighing an impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, sources confirmed after a meeting of floor leaders on Monday.
The move comes just a day after the CEC addressed a rare press conference at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, rejecting Congress’s charge of large-scale “voter theft” and allegations that the poll body is favouring the ruling party.
Under the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, the CEC can only be removed in the same manner as a Supreme Court judge — requiring a motion supported by at least 50 MPs, and passage by a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament.
The Opposition does not command the numbers to see such a motion through. However, a senior INDIA bloc leader said the initiative was symbolic: “The motion underlines our protest at the CEC’s conduct. Even if it fails, the message will be clear.”
The development adds a fresh flashpoint to the Monsoon Session of Parliament, already marred by Opposition-government clashes over electoral transparency and institutional independence.
