Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Narendra Modi-led government for amending election rules to restrict public access to certain electronic documents. He called it part of a “systematic conspiracy” to weaken the institutional integrity of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Rule Amendment Details
The Union Law Ministry, based on ECI’s recommendation, amended Rule 93(2)(a) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961. The change restricts public inspection of electronic records like CCTV footage, webcasting data, and video recordings of candidates to prevent misuse.
Law Ministry officials stated that the amendment was triggered by a court case and aimed at protecting sensitive electoral data.
Kharge’s Reaction
Kharge took to social media platform X, accusing the Modi government of undermining democracy:
- Attack on Transparency: He alleged the amendment is a deliberate move to block electoral transparency, even defying a court order.
- Erosion of ECI’s Integrity: He pointed out previous actions, such as removing the Chief Justice of India from the panel selecting Election Commissioners, as evidence of the government’s attempts to influence the ECI.
- Condemnation of ECI’s Conduct: Kharge claimed the ECI often dismisses Congress’s complaints on voter deletions and EVM transparency, reflecting a lack of independence.
Congress Plans Legal Action
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh announced that the party would legally challenge the amendment, emphasizing its commitment to protecting the democratic process.
Context of the Amendment
Previously, Rule 93 allowed public inspection of all election-related “papers.” The amendment narrows this scope by adding the phrase “as specified in these rules.”
Both Law Ministry and ECI officials clarified that the amendment aims to prevent misuse of sensitive election data.
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