The Election Commission of India holds a live press conference on the Bihar voter list controversy amid heated debates over Aadhaar and citizenship

Voter fraud row: CEC Gyanesh Kumar addresses press conference 

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, on Tuesday (Feb 18), strongly criticised the appointment of Gyanesh Kumar as the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), citing concerns over the integrity of India's electoral process.&nbsp;
Gandhi expressed his dissent over the exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee, calling it a violation of a Supreme Court order.
He said that the Indian government has "exacerbated the concerns of hundreds of millions of voters over the integrity of our electoral process," by violating the order of the Supreme Court and "removing" the Chief Justice from the selection committee.
The Congress leader took to his official X handle and, in a post, expressed his dissent over the selection, calling the process "disrespectful and discourteous."
"By violating the Supreme Court order and removing the Chief Justice of India from the committee, the Modi Government has exacerbated the concerns of hundreds of millions of voters over the integrity of our electoral process," he wrote.
He further said that it was his duty to uphold the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar and hold the government to account.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-gyanesh-kumar-indias-newly-appointed-chief-election-commissioner-8731332">Also read: Who is Gyanesh Kumar, India's newly appointed Chief Election Commissioner?</a>
"As the LoP it is my duty to uphold the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the founding leaders of our nation and hold the government to account. It is both disrespectful and discourteous for the PM and HM to have made a midnight decision to select the new CEC, when the very composition of the committee and the process is being challenged in the Supreme Court and is due to be heard in less than forty-eight hours," Gandhi's dissent note read.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7abtj5b-8ql8abj6-m67orvtm">
During the meeting of the committee to select the next Election Commissioner, I presented a dissent note to the PM and HM, that stated: The most fundamental aspect of an independent Election Commission free from executive interference is the process of choosing the Election&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/JeL9WSfq3X">pic.twitter.com/JeL9WSfq3X</a>
&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1891750805172031920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Gyanesh Kumar appointed as Chief Election Commissioner</h2>
Gyanesh Kumar succeeds CEC Rajiv Kumar, who will be demitting the office on Tuesday (Feb 18).
A notification issued by the Indian Ministry of Law and Justice announced that President Droupadi Murmu was pleased to appoint Gyanesh Kumar, Election Commissioner, as Chief Election Commissioner in the Election Commission of India, with effect from February 19, 2025.
He is the first CEC to be appointed under the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, a new law on the appointment of the members of the Election Commission (EC).
The Congress had raised objections on the process, stating that the government must postpone the selection meeting, as there was a case in the Supreme Court regarding the appointment of the previous CEC.
The grand old party said on Monday (Feb 17) that the new process "creates a partisan and non-neutral mechanism for the selection of Election Commissioners".
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: The Congress leader took to his official X handle, and in a post expressed his dissent over the selection, calling the process "disrespectful and discourteous."

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, on Tuesday (Feb 18), strongly criticised the appointment of Gyanesh Kumar as the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), citing concerns over the integrity of India's electoral process. Gandhi expressed his dissent over the exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee, calling it a violation of a Supreme Court order. He said that the Indian government has "exacerbated the concerns of hundreds of millions of voters over the integrity of our electoral process," by violating the order of the Supreme Court and "removing" the Chief Justice from the selection committee. The Congress leader took to his official X handle and, in a post, expressed his dissent over the selection, calling the process "disrespectful and discourteous." "By violating the Supreme Court order and removing the Chief Justice of India from the committee, the Modi Government has exacerbated the concerns of hundreds of millions of voters over the integrity of our electoral process," he wrote. He further said that it was his duty to uphold the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar and hold the government to account. Also read: Who is Gyanesh Kumar, India's newly appointed Chief Election Commissioner? "As the LoP it is my duty to uphold the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the founding leaders of our nation and hold the government to account. It is both disrespectful and discourteous for the PM and HM to have made a midnight decision to select the new CEC, when the very composition of the committee and the process is being challenged in the Supreme Court and is due to be heard in less than forty-eight hours," Gandhi's dissent note read. During the meeting of the committee to select the next Election Commissioner, I presented a dissent note to the PM and HM, that stated: The most fundamental aspect of an independent Election Commission free from executive interference is the process of choosing the Election… pic.twitter.com/JeL9WSfq3X — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 18, 2025 Gyanesh Kumar appointed as Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar succeeds CEC Rajiv Kumar, who will be demitting the office on Tuesday (Feb 18). A notification issued by the Indian Ministry of Law and Justice announced that President Droupadi Murmu was pleased to appoint Gyanesh Kumar, Election Commissioner, as Chief Election Commissioner in the Election Commission of India, with effect from February 19, 2025. He is the first CEC to be appointed under the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, a new law on the appointment of the members of the Election Commission (EC). The Congress had raised objections on the process, stating that the government must postpone the selection meeting, as there was a case in the Supreme Court regarding the appointment of the previous CEC. The grand old party said on Monday (Feb 17) that the new process "creates a partisan and non-neutral mechanism for the selection of Election Commissioners". (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi expresses dissent over Chief Election Commissioner’s appointment; ‘disrespectful, discourteous’

The Central Election Committee of&nbsp;India’s&nbsp;main opposition Congress party is all set to finalise candidates on two of its strongholds in&nbsp;the state of&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh: Amethi and Raebareli. A meeting will&nbsp;be held&nbsp;Saturday (Apr 27)&nbsp;and&nbsp;the decision could&nbsp;be taken&nbsp;tomorrow.&nbsp;All Congress cadres&nbsp;would be eagerly waiting for&nbsp;the meeting to conclude as the committee will decide whether&nbsp;former party president Rahul Gandhi will be fielded&nbsp;from Amethi.&nbsp;There are also speculations that&nbsp;Rahul’s&nbsp;sister and Congress General&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Priyanka Gandhi&nbsp;Vadra&nbsp;may&nbsp;be fielded&nbsp;from the Raebareli seat.

It is to&nbsp;be noted&nbsp;that Gandhi is already contesting elections in the Wayanad constituency in the southern Indian state of Kerala. If&nbsp;Priyanka’s&nbsp;name&nbsp;is finalised&nbsp;from Raebareli, it would be her political debut.

Earlier, the state election committee of&nbsp;Congress's&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh unit had proposed the names of Rahul Gandhi from Amethi and Priyanka Gandhi from Raebareli.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-heatwave-warning-issued-in-many-states-going-to-polls-in-second-phase-715314" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-heatwave-warning-issued-in-many-states-going-to-polls-in-second-phase-715314&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase</a>

It was reported&nbsp;that the decision could&nbsp;be taken&nbsp;in the last meeting of the CEC itself&nbsp;but&nbsp;later&nbsp;the decision was left to the Gandhi family.

<h2>Both seats bastions of Congress</h2>

Notably, both Amethi and Raebareli are&nbsp;Congress’s&nbsp;bastions. Rahul Gandhi represented Amethi as a Member of Parliament (MP) for 15 years till 2019 but lost to&nbsp;BJP’s&nbsp;Smriti Irani last time.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-tripura-leads-voter-turnout-with-7753-per-cent-till-5pm-up-records-lowest-715436" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-tripura-leads-voter-turnout-with-7753-per-cent-till-5pm-up-records-lowest-715436&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Lok Sabha polls: Tripura leads voter turnout with 77.53 per cent till 5 pm, UP numbers lowest</a>

On the other hand, former Congress chief and&nbsp;Rahul’s&nbsp;mother&nbsp;Sonia&nbsp;Gandhi&nbsp;represented Raebareli for several terms&nbsp;but&nbsp;now&nbsp;the seat stands vacated as Sonia has&nbsp;been nominated&nbsp;to the upper house of the Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha.

<h2>Robert Vadra offers prayers in&nbsp;Rishikesh</h2>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Sonia’s&nbsp;son-in-law and&nbsp;Priyanka’s&nbsp;husband&nbsp;Robert&nbsp;Vadra&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;offered prayers in Rishikesh and prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka.&nbsp;

“The visit here has given me power and I prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi while campaigning. I prayed for an environment of peace in the country and that the feeling of brotherhood remains. Keep religion and politics completely separate,”&nbsp;Vadra said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Central Election Committee of India’s main opposition Congress party is all set to finalise candidates on two of its strongholds in the state of Uttar Pradesh: Amethi and Raebareli.

The Central Election Committee of India’s main opposition Congress party is all set to finalise candidates on two of its strongholds in the state of Uttar Pradesh: Amethi and Raebareli. A meeting will be held Saturday (Apr 27) and the decision could be taken tomorrow. All Congress cadres would be eagerly waiting for the meeting to conclude as the committee will decide whether former party president Rahul Gandhi will be fielded from Amethi. There are also speculations that Rahul’s sister and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra may be fielded from the Raebareli seat. It is to be noted that Gandhi is already contesting elections in the Wayanad constituency in the southern Indian state of Kerala. If Priyanka’s name is finalised from Raebareli, it would be her political debut. Earlier, the state election committee of Congress's Uttar Pradesh unit had proposed the names of Rahul Gandhi from Amethi and Priyanka Gandhi from Raebareli. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase It was reported that the decision could be taken in the last meeting of the CEC itself but later the decision was left to the Gandhi family. Both seats bastions of Congress Notably, both Amethi and Raebareli are Congress’s bastions. Rahul Gandhi represented Amethi as a Member of Parliament (MP) for 15 years till 2019 but lost to BJP’s Smriti Irani last time. Also read: Lok Sabha polls: Tripura leads voter turnout with 77.53 per cent till 5 pm, UP numbers lowest On the other hand, former Congress chief and Rahul’s mother Sonia Gandhi represented Raebareli for several terms but now the seat stands vacated as Sonia has been nominated to the upper house of the Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha. Robert Vadra offers prayers in Rishikesh Meanwhile, Sonia’s son-in-law and Priyanka’s husband Robert Vadra on Friday offered prayers in Rishikesh and prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka. “The visit here has given me power and I prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi while campaigning. I prayed for an environment of peace in the country and that the feeling of brotherhood remains. Keep religion and politics completely separate,” Vadra said. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress to decide whether to field Rahul, Priyanka from Amethi, Raebareli on Saturday

A meeting of the Congress party's Central Election Committee is also underway at the All-India Congress Committee Office in New Delhi and party officials are discussing the candidates for the Lok Sabha polls in the state of Telangana and candidates for State elections as well as general elections in Andhra Pradesh.

India elections 2024: Congress CEC meeting underway in New Delhi

The speech of India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, while announcing the election schedule for state by-polls, assembly elections, and parliamentary elections on Saturday (Mar 16), was laced with both humour and a dash of poetry. While speaking over the weighty matters at hand, Kumar's witty remarks and playful wordplay elicited hearty laughter from everyone in attendance.

Here's a look at three of the most interesting comments made by the top election official:&nbsp;

<h2>- Poetic jibe on EVM tampering allegations</h2>

In his comments over allegations of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) tampering, CEC Kumar, with the help of a shayari (poetry), elegantly rebuked parties/leaders who are quick to blame EVMs for their political failures and election losses but conveniently choose to remain silent when the results are in their favour.

"Adhoori hasrato ka ilzaam, har baar hum par lagaana theek nahi, wafa khud se nahi hoti, khataa EVM ki kahete ho, aur baad mein jab parinaam aata hai toh uspe kaayam bhi nahi rahte (pointing fingers at us (EVMs) for your unmet desires every time isn't fair. You can't assure faithfulness to yourself, yet you persist in faulting EVMs. Then, when the outcome pours in, you refuse to acknowledge it.)

The comment by CEC, where he spoke of faithfulness, appeared to be taking a swipe&nbsp;at leaders changing parties, something that often sparks debates and raises questions over their sincerity. Notably, while some argue that such transitions show adaptability, others perceive them as opportunistic manoeuvres driven by personal ambition rather than principled conviction.

<h2>- Combatting fake news</h2>

Taking a firm stance against misinformation, CEC Kumar said that one must try to combat fake news with the mantra - "verify before you amplify." He urged the importance of relying on authoritative sources.

Once more, in his poetic manner and targeting people who forward fake news, he said, "Jhooth ke bazaar mein raunak to bahut hai, goya bulbule jaisi turant hi phat jati hai..Pakad bhi loge to kya haasil hoga siwaye dhokhe ke (There is a lot of excitement in the market of lies, it seems as if a bubble bursts instantly. Even if you catch hold of it, what will you gain except deception?)

<h2>- Transparency in electoral bonds</h2>

Kumar also spoke at length on the electoral bonds, the data of which was recently made public by the poll body after a directive by the Supreme Court.

He stressed the commission's commitment to transparency. "In democracy, there is no scope for hiding things, it is all about making everybody know, we are all for transparency. This is the first part of the exercise that it must be known, the country now has to ask and find solutions through an institutional mechanism where the donor's privacy is also considered," he said.

Kumar added, "The unaccounted money which is used in the elections... during the elections we are very particular to control it but how do we also control the donations in the unaccounted form is something which the entire nation needs to work together... the donor's privacy is also protected so he is not harassed, how the money is channelised and how it is more and more white."

(With inputs from agencies)

The speech of India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, while announcing the election schedule for state by-polls, assembly elections, and parliamentary elections on Saturday (Mar 16), was laced with both humour and a dash of poetry.

The speech of India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, while announcing the election schedule for state by-polls, assembly elections, and parliamentary elections on Saturday (Mar 16), was laced with both humour and a dash of poetry. While speaking over the weighty matters at hand, Kumar's witty remarks and playful wordplay elicited hearty laughter from everyone in attendance. Here's a look at three of the most interesting comments made by the top election official: - Poetic jibe on EVM tampering allegations In his comments over allegations of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) tampering, CEC Kumar, with the help of a shayari (poetry), elegantly rebuked parties/leaders who are quick to blame EVMs for their political failures and election losses but conveniently choose to remain silent when the results are in their favour. "Adhoori hasrato ka ilzaam, har baar hum par lagaana theek nahi, wafa khud se nahi hoti, khataa EVM ki kahete ho, aur baad mein jab parinaam aata hai toh uspe kaayam bhi nahi rahte (pointing fingers at us (EVMs) for your unmet desires every time isn't fair. You can't assure faithfulness to yourself, yet you persist in faulting EVMs. Then, when the outcome pours in, you refuse to acknowledge it.) The comment by CEC, where he spoke of faithfulness, appeared to be taking a swipe at leaders changing parties, something that often sparks debates and raises questions over their sincerity. Notably, while some argue that such transitions show adaptability, others perceive them as opportunistic manoeuvres driven by personal ambition rather than principled conviction. - Combatting fake news Taking a firm stance against misinformation, CEC Kumar said that one must try to combat fake news with the mantra - "verify before you amplify." He urged the importance of relying on authoritative sources. Once more, in his poetic manner and targeting people who forward fake news, he said, "Jhooth ke bazaar mein raunak to bahut hai, goya bulbule jaisi turant hi phat jati hai..Pakad bhi loge to kya haasil hoga siwaye dhokhe ke (There is a lot of excitement in the market of lies, it seems as if a bubble bursts instantly. Even if you catch hold of it, what will you gain except deception?) - Transparency in electoral bonds Kumar also spoke at length on the electoral bonds, the data of which was recently made public by the poll body after a directive by the Supreme Court. He stressed the commission's commitment to transparency. "In democracy, there is no scope for hiding things, it is all about making everybody know, we are all for transparency. This is the first part of the exercise that it must be known, the country now has to ask and find solutions through an institutional mechanism where the donor's privacy is also considered," he said. Kumar added, "The unaccounted money which is used in the elections... during the elections we are very particular to control it but how do we also control the donations in the unaccounted form is something which the entire nation needs to work together... the donor's privacy is also protected so he is not harassed, how the money is channelised and how it is more and more white." (With inputs from agencies)

India's Chief Election Commissioner weaves wit, poetry into poll dates announcement. Here are top moments

India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections.

"We are yet to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The way for conducting legal elections has opened since December 23. This is March, and there is snowfall in the region, hence the question of holding elections does not arise at this point," Kumar was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI.

"We (ECI) went to Jammu and Kashmir and were asked by all the political parties there to hold the state assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls. After that, we held administrative meetings wherein it was discussed that a lot of security forces would be required to conduct state assembly election with Lok Sabha election in J-K," he said.

"All political parties asked the ECI to conduct an assembly election with Lok Sabha polls, but security agencies advised us that it would not be possible to provide security as there was a need for the deployment of huge security forces. But we are seriously thinking of conducting polls in JK after the Lok Sabha polls. JK will be the first state to go in the election after the Lok Sabha polls," he said.

He further said that the ECI is "seriously" looking into conducting the elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the Lok Sabha polls.

Speaking about the high-level committee submitting its report on the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, Kumar said that the ECI would conduct elections according to the constitutional provisions.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: CEC Rajiv Kumar explains over not conducting Parliamentary &amp; Assembly polls together in J&amp;K; says, "During our recent visit to Srinagar and Jammu, the J&amp;K Administration told us that two elections can't be held at the same time due to more security requirements.… <a href="https://t.co/xfzVt7hKxY">pic.twitter.com/xfzVt7hKxY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1768965381874393290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"There is a provision in the Constitution for conducting elections. Article 83(2) of the Constitution of India states that the House of the People will continue for five years from the date of its first meeting. There is a clause in Section 14 of the RP Act, 1951 that elections for the Parliament be must held six months before the end of the Assembly. As long as this article is there in the Constitution and there are provisions for People's Representation and People's Act, our job is to conduct elections according to them," Kumar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677">Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule</a>

<h2>'How is security alright for parliamentary polls and not state elections,' questions Farooq Abdullah</h2>

National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah, expressed dismay over ECI's decision to not conduct Parliamentary and Assembly polls simultaneously in Jammu and Kashmir.

The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said that the poll body on one hand was planning on conducting Assembly polls in four states that would be coinciding with Lok Sabha elections but J&amp;K was denied this opportunity.

"On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in four states, why is this (J-K) being denied? When every party wanted elections (in J-K) then what is the reason it is not being done?," news agency ANI quoted Abdullah as saying.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates, National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah says, "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in 4 states, why is this… <a href="https://t.co/zwZDWOL6By">pic.twitter.com/zwZDWOL6By</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1768964997114114338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Abdullah, further questioning the observations made by Kumar, said, "If they say security is the reason, I do not think so. How is that security is alright for the parliamentary elections and not for the state elections?"

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections.

India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections. "We are yet to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The way for conducting legal elections has opened since December 23. This is March, and there is snowfall in the region, hence the question of holding elections does not arise at this point," Kumar was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI. "We (ECI) went to Jammu and Kashmir and were asked by all the political parties there to hold the state assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls. After that, we held administrative meetings wherein it was discussed that a lot of security forces would be required to conduct state assembly election with Lok Sabha election in J-K," he said. "All political parties asked the ECI to conduct an assembly election with Lok Sabha polls, but security agencies advised us that it would not be possible to provide security as there was a need for the deployment of huge security forces. But we are seriously thinking of conducting polls in JK after the Lok Sabha polls. JK will be the first state to go in the election after the Lok Sabha polls," he said. He further said that the ECI is "seriously" looking into conducting the elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the Lok Sabha polls. Speaking about the high-level committee submitting its report on the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, Kumar said that the ECI would conduct elections according to the constitutional provisions. #WATCH | Delhi: CEC Rajiv Kumar explains over not conducting Parliamentary & Assembly polls together in J&K; says, "During our recent visit to Srinagar and Jammu, the J&K Administration told us that two elections can't be held at the same time due to more security requirements.… pic.twitter.com/xfzVt7hKxY — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024 × "There is a provision in the Constitution for conducting elections. Article 83(2) of the Constitution of India states that the House of the People will continue for five years from the date of its first meeting. There is a clause in Section 14 of the RP Act, 1951 that elections for the Parliament be must held six months before the end of the Assembly. As long as this article is there in the Constitution and there are provisions for People's Representation and People's Act, our job is to conduct elections according to them," Kumar said. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule 'How is security alright for parliamentary polls and not state elections,' questions Farooq Abdullah National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah, expressed dismay over ECI's decision to not conduct Parliamentary and Assembly polls simultaneously in Jammu and Kashmir. The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said that the poll body on one hand was planning on conducting Assembly polls in four states that would be coinciding with Lok Sabha elections but J&K was denied this opportunity. "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in four states, why is this (J-K) being denied? When every party wanted elections (in J-K) then what is the reason it is not being done?," news agency ANI quoted Abdullah as saying. #WATCH | On the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates, National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah says, "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in 4 states, why is this… pic.twitter.com/zwZDWOL6By — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024 × Abdullah, further questioning the observations made by Kumar, said, "If they say security is the reason, I do not think so. How is that security is alright for the parliamentary elections and not for the state elections?" (With inputs from agencies)

Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir to be held after Lok Sabha polls, announces CEC Rajiv Kumar

Indian parliament on Tuesday (Dec 12) passed a bill to regulate the appointment and service terms of Chief Election commissioners and election commissioners.

The bill cleared by Rajya Sabha included critical amendments like the retention of CEC, EC status at par with the judges of the Supreme Court and upgradation of the search committee.

It also inserted a new clause to safeguard them the court cases while releasing their official duties.

While the bill was passed by a voice vote, the members of the opposition argued that the suggested measure subjugates the poll authority to the Executive and also violates the Constitution.&nbsp;

The bill was cleared after Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal's response who said that the Election Commission will continue to "work independently" and that bill had been brought after a judgement by the Supreme Court.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhajan-lal-sharma-named-as-rajasthans-new-chief-minister-668900">Bhajan Lal Sharma named as Rajasthan's new Chief Minister</a>

<h2>Opposition stages walkout</h2>

The opposition members staged a walkout during the proceedings while marking their objection to the proposed law.

Congress MP Randeep Surjewala called the bill an attack on the democracy saying that the autonomy, fearlessness and fairness of India's democracy and electoral machinery have been crushed by a bulldozer.

"Modi government has attacked the democracy of India. The autonomy, fearlessness and fairness of India's democracy and electoral machinery have been crushed by a bulldozer," Surjewala said.

"The Modi Government is passing a law in Rajya Sabha today to make the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners of the Election Commission of India, a 'pawn Election Commissioner'," he added.

He also slammed the Modi government saying that this bill had turned the literal meaning of EC from 'Electoral Credibility' to 'Elections Compromised'.

"They will appoint a Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners of their own choice. They will run their Election Commission as per their desire. They will prepare an electoral list as per their desire...This is perhaps one of the biggest blows to democracy hurled by the Modi government in the last 9 years...We will take it to the end and the struggle will continue from Parliament to the streets," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian parliament on Tuesday (Dec 12) passed a bill to regulate the appointment and service terms of Chief Election commissioners and election commissioners. The bill cleared by Rajya Sabha included critical amendments like the retention of CEC, EC status at par with the judges of the Supreme Court and upgradation of the search committee.

Indian parliament on Tuesday (Dec 12) passed a bill to regulate the appointment and service terms of Chief Election commissioners and election commissioners. The bill cleared by Rajya Sabha included critical amendments like the retention of CEC, EC status at par with the judges of the Supreme Court and upgradation of the search committee. It also inserted a new clause to safeguard them the court cases while releasing their official duties. While the bill was passed by a voice vote, the members of the opposition argued that the suggested measure subjugates the poll authority to the Executive and also violates the Constitution. The bill was cleared after Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal's response who said that the Election Commission will continue to "work independently" and that bill had been brought after a judgement by the Supreme Court. Also read: Bhajan Lal Sharma named as Rajasthan's new Chief Minister Opposition stages walkout The opposition members staged a walkout during the proceedings while marking their objection to the proposed law. Congress MP Randeep Surjewala called the bill an attack on the democracy saying that the autonomy, fearlessness and fairness of India's democracy and electoral machinery have been crushed by a bulldozer. "Modi government has attacked the democracy of India. The autonomy, fearlessness and fairness of India's democracy and electoral machinery have been crushed by a bulldozer," Surjewala said. "The Modi Government is passing a law in Rajya Sabha today to make the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners of the Election Commission of India, a 'pawn Election Commissioner'," he added. He also slammed the Modi government saying that this bill had turned the literal meaning of EC from 'Electoral Credibility' to 'Elections Compromised'. "They will appoint a Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners of their own choice. They will run their Election Commission as per their desire. They will prepare an electoral list as per their desire...This is perhaps one of the biggest blows to democracy hurled by the Modi government in the last 9 years...We will take it to the end and the struggle will continue from Parliament to the streets," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajya Sabha passes bill to regulate appointment of CEC, election commissioners; opposition walks out

Owing to ensuring physical distancing and Covid-19 safety norms there would be 25,000 additional polling booths in Tamil Nadu and the voting time will be extended by an hour. This means that the total voting booths would go up from over 68,000 to 93,000. The announcement to this effect was made by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, during his two-day visit, along with a team of election officials to review poll preparedness in the state.&nbsp;

He emphasized that efforts would be taken to ensure inducement-free and Covid-19-safe elections. The parliamentary by-poll to Kanyakumari constituency is also to be held along with the Assembly elections to 234 seats.

Regarding requests to hold the election in the last week of April, the CEC said that many political parties had asked for the same due to exams, intense summer and festivals among others. The CEC added that all sensitivities would be taken into consideration before announcing the election dates.&nbsp;

When asked about the effectiveness about election commission's actions against malpractices, the CEC replied that it was on display when the Vellore Lok Sabha poll was rescinded and the R K Nagar by poll was rescinded twice.&nbsp;

It was also added that the two special expenditure observers and district level observers would be deputed for Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

However, the CEC also expressed unhappiness over the functioning of the state excise department which had not adequately cracked down on malpractices and only caught the small culprits, while the big fish were spared. He said that a report on this was sought from the Additional Chief Secretary, Home who also looks after finance dept.&nbsp;

The CEC added that he had met and discussed with several officials regarding the smooth conduct of polls in the Southern state.

Owing to ensuring physical distancing and Covid-19 safety norms there would be 25,000 additional polling booths in Tamil Nadu and the voting time will be extended by an hour.

Owing to ensuring physical distancing and Covid-19 safety norms there would be 25,000 additional polling booths in Tamil Nadu and the voting time will be extended by an hour. This means that the total voting booths would go up from over 68,000 to 93,000. The announcement to this effect was made by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, during his two-day visit, along with a team of election officials to review poll preparedness in the state. He emphasized that efforts would be taken to ensure inducement-free and Covid-19-safe elections. The parliamentary by-poll to Kanyakumari constituency is also to be held along with the Assembly elections to 234 seats. Regarding requests to hold the election in the last week of April, the CEC said that many political parties had asked for the same due to exams, intense summer and festivals among others. The CEC added that all sensitivities would be taken into consideration before announcing the election dates. When asked about the effectiveness about election commission's actions against malpractices, the CEC replied that it was on display when the Vellore Lok Sabha poll was rescinded and the R K Nagar by poll was rescinded twice. It was also added that the two special expenditure observers and district level observers would be deputed for Tamil Nadu. However, the CEC also expressed unhappiness over the functioning of the state excise department which had not adequately cracked down on malpractices and only caught the small culprits, while the big fish were spared. He said that a report on this was sought from the Additional Chief Secretary, Home who also looks after finance dept. The CEC added that he had met and discussed with several officials regarding the smooth conduct of polls in the Southern state.

25,000 extra booths, voting time extended by an hour for Tamil Nadu elections, says CEC

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Friday said that there was no chance to bring back ballot papers in place of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/evm-hacking-row-sp-asks-ec-to-use-ballot-papers-for-2019-polls-192472">Electronic Voting Machines</a> (EVMs) in the elections.

Arora said that there was no question of going back to the old system and even the Supreme Court has repeatedly given verdicts against the return of ballot papers.

Earlier, Opposition parties had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of winning the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by tampering EVM machines.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had rejected Opposition's accusation, saying that EVMs are tamper-proof and can't be hacked.

On July 31, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mns-chief-raj-thackeray-meets-tmc-supremo-mamata-banerjee-calls-for-return-of-ballot-boxes-239783">Raj Thackeray</a> met Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata and called for the return of ballot boxes.&nbsp;

Mamata Banerjee, who was one of the earliest interlocutors of the united opposition, has been demanding the return of ballot papers for&nbsp;a long time.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Mamata had asked all the Opposition parties to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. "I ask all the 23 political parties in the opposition to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. We must raise our voices. Even a country like the US has banned EVMs," Banerjee said.&nbsp;

(With reports from agencies)

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Friday said that there was no chance to bring back ballot papers in place of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the elections.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Friday said that there was no chance to bring back ballot papers in place of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the elections. Arora said that there was no question of going back to the old system and even the Supreme Court has repeatedly given verdicts against the return of ballot papers. Earlier, Opposition parties had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of winning the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by tampering EVM machines. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had rejected Opposition's accusation, saying that EVMs are tamper-proof and can't be hacked. On July 31, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray met Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata and called for the return of ballot boxes. Mamata Banerjee, who was one of the earliest interlocutors of the united opposition, has been demanding the return of ballot papers for a long time. Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Mamata had asked all the Opposition parties to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. "I ask all the 23 political parties in the opposition to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. We must raise our voices. Even a country like the US has banned EVMs," Banerjee said. (With reports from agencies)

We are not going back to the era of ballot papers: Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora

Fearing manipulation, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday wrote to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora, seeking deployment of additional observer and security forces at the strong rooms.

AAP has alleged the opposition parties have "planned attempts to gerrymander with EVMs a day or two ahead of the actual counting on May 23."

"I have strong reasons to believe our political adversaries will attempt to open strong rooms housing EVMs and manipulate or replace the machines as a handful of such incidents in the past have been witnessed," AAP's south Delhi candidate Raghav Chadha stated in the letter to Arora on Monday.

"Alarming as it may be, this would not be the first time such an attack on the electoral process would take place," Chadha, also a national spokesperson of AAP, has further stated in the letter.

"You may recall the municipal elections of 2017, at which time, specifically in a ward falling within South Delhi parliamentary constituency, strong rooms were violated and seals had been broken prior to the day assigned for counting," reads the letter.

"In addition to the already appointed Election Observer whose role is to oversee the entire electoral process, we request the ECI to appoint another independent observer whose sole focus shall be to maintain a watchful eye on strong rooms and ensure safety and security of EVMs. Until the declaration of results, the observer must ensure safe custody and integrity of EVMs."

"We request the CRPF security at Jijabaji Institute, where South Delhi's EVMs are housed, be tightened. It is further requested that additional CRPF personnel may be deployed to keep a watch over the strong rooms round the clock."

All seven seats in the city-state went to polls on May 12 during the sixth phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha polls. In South Delhi parliamentary constituency, Raghav Chadha is faced with BJP`s sitting MP Ramesh Bidhuri and Congress` Vijender Singh. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Fearing manipulation, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday wrote to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora, seeking deployment of additional observer and security forces at the strong rooms.

Fearing manipulation, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday wrote to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora, seeking deployment of additional observer and security forces at the strong rooms. AAP has alleged the opposition parties have "planned attempts to gerrymander with EVMs a day or two ahead of the actual counting on May 23." "I have strong reasons to believe our political adversaries will attempt to open strong rooms housing EVMs and manipulate or replace the machines as a handful of such incidents in the past have been witnessed," AAP's south Delhi candidate Raghav Chadha stated in the letter to Arora on Monday. "Alarming as it may be, this would not be the first time such an attack on the electoral process would take place," Chadha, also a national spokesperson of AAP, has further stated in the letter. "You may recall the municipal elections of 2017, at which time, specifically in a ward falling within South Delhi parliamentary constituency, strong rooms were violated and seals had been broken prior to the day assigned for counting," reads the letter. "In addition to the already appointed Election Observer whose role is to oversee the entire electoral process, we request the ECI to appoint another independent observer whose sole focus shall be to maintain a watchful eye on strong rooms and ensure safety and security of EVMs. Until the declaration of results, the observer must ensure safe custody and integrity of EVMs." "We request the CRPF security at Jijabaji Institute, where South Delhi's EVMs are housed, be tightened. It is further requested that additional CRPF personnel may be deployed to keep a watch over the strong rooms round the clock." All seven seats in the city-state went to polls on May 12 during the sixth phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha polls. In South Delhi parliamentary constituency, Raghav Chadha is faced with BJP`s sitting MP Ramesh Bidhuri and Congress` Vijender Singh. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

AAP seeks additional security at strong room in Delhi, writes to Chief Election Commissioner

Differences in the Election Commission have burst out in the open with Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa boycotting the meetings of the full Commission over his dissent on crucial decisions not being recorded.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora hit back at Lavasa, saying "ill-timed" controversies should be avoided and has called a meeting of the full Commission on May 21 to discuss and thrash out issues.

Arora also sought to downplay the controversy saying all the Commissioners are "not expected to be template or clones of each other".

Lavasa, who had dissented on the series of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-gives-clean-chit-to-pm-modi-over-pulwama-remark-roadshow-in-ahmedabad-sources-216677">clean chits given by the Commission to Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and BJP President Amit Shah on their speeches during the election campaign, had&nbsp;written a letter to Arora on May 16 even hinting at "taking recourse to other measures" for restoring the "lawful" functioning of the Commission in terms of recording minority decisions.

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"I am being forced to stay away from the meetings of the full Commission since minority decisions are not being recorded. My participation in the deliberations of the Commission becomes meaningless since my minority decisions go unrecorded," he said.

Lavasa said he might consider taking recourse to other measures aimed at restoring the lawful functioning of the Commission in terms of recording minority decisions.

"My various notes on the need for transparency in the recording and disclosure of all decisions including the minority view have gone unheeded, forcing me to withdraw from participating in the deliberations of the complaints," he said in the letter to Arora.

The office of the CEC on Saturday released a statement of Arora which said there has been an "unsavoury and avoidable" controversy reported in the media today about the internal functioning of the Commission in respect of the handling Mode Code of Conduct.

This, he said, has come at a time when all the Chief Electoral Officers throughout the country and their teams were geared for the seventh and last phase of polling on Sunday.

All of them and the senior officers of the EC headquarters have been working their utmost during the last six phases of elections which barring an odd incident here and there have been largely peaceful and conducted in a fair, free and transparent manner.

"The three members of ECI are not expected to be template or clones of each other. There have been so many times in the past when there has been a vast diversion of views as it can and should be. But the same largely remained within the confines of ECI after demission of office unless appearing much later in a book written by the concerned ECs, CECs."

"I said a few days back in another leading daily that eloquence of silence is always difficult but far more desirable which is to see the election process through instead of creating ill-timed controversies."

Arora said it needs to be mentioned in the last meeting of the Commission on May 14, it was unanimously decided that some groups shall be formed to deliberate the issues, which arose in the course of conduct of Lok Sabha elections just as it was done after the elections in 2014.

Out of the 13 issues and areas which were identified, Model Code of Conduct is one of them, Arora said.

Lavasa had opposed and dissented on the clean chits given by the Commission to Modi and Shah over the alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct by them during their campaign.

The Congress and CPI(M) had complained against Modi's speeches invoking the armed forces in the context of the Balakot aerial strikes and on issues relating to minorities. EC sources said it needs to be clarified categorically and unambiguously that this was purely an internal matter of the Election Commission and as such any speculation, innuendoes and insinuations in this regard should be eschewed.

&nbsp;

Differences in the Election Commission have burst out in the open with Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa boycotting the meetings of the full Commission over his dissent on crucial decisions not being recorded.

Differences in the Election Commission have burst out in the open with Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa boycotting the meetings of the full Commission over his dissent on crucial decisions not being recorded. Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora hit back at Lavasa, saying "ill-timed" controversies should be avoided and has called a meeting of the full Commission on May 21 to discuss and thrash out issues. Arora also sought to downplay the controversy saying all the Commissioners are "not expected to be template or clones of each other". Lavasa, who had dissented on the series of clean chits given by the Commission to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah on their speeches during the election campaign, had written a letter to Arora on May 16 even hinting at "taking recourse to other measures" for restoring the "lawful" functioning of the Commission in terms of recording minority decisions. Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora issues statement on EC Ashok Lavasa's purported letter to him, says, 'an unsavory and avoidable controversy reported in sections of media today about internal functioning of ECI in respect of handling of Model Code of Conduct.' (3/3) pic.twitter.com/yuRxOHMaGL — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2019 × "I am being forced to stay away from the meetings of the full Commission since minority decisions are not being recorded. My participation in the deliberations of the Commission becomes meaningless since my minority decisions go unrecorded," he said. Lavasa said he might consider taking recourse to other measures aimed at restoring the lawful functioning of the Commission in terms of recording minority decisions. "My various notes on the need for transparency in the recording and disclosure of all decisions including the minority view have gone unheeded, forcing me to withdraw from participating in the deliberations of the complaints," he said in the letter to Arora. The office of the CEC on Saturday released a statement of Arora which said there has been an "unsavoury and avoidable" controversy reported in the media today about the internal functioning of the Commission in respect of the handling Mode Code of Conduct. This, he said, has come at a time when all the Chief Electoral Officers throughout the country and their teams were geared for the seventh and last phase of polling on Sunday. All of them and the senior officers of the EC headquarters have been working their utmost during the last six phases of elections which barring an odd incident here and there have been largely peaceful and conducted in a fair, free and transparent manner. "The three members of ECI are not expected to be template or clones of each other. There have been so many times in the past when there has been a vast diversion of views as it can and should be. But the same largely remained within the confines of ECI after demission of office unless appearing much later in a book written by the concerned ECs, CECs." "I said a few days back in another leading daily that eloquence of silence is always difficult but far more desirable which is to see the election process through instead of creating ill-timed controversies." Arora said it needs to be mentioned in the last meeting of the Commission on May 14, it was unanimously decided that some groups shall be formed to deliberate the issues, which arose in the course of conduct of Lok Sabha elections just as it was done after the elections in 2014. Out of the 13 issues and areas which were identified, Model Code of Conduct is one of them, Arora said. Lavasa had opposed and dissented on the clean chits given by the Commission to Modi and Shah over the alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct by them during their campaign. The Congress and CPI(M) had complained against Modi's speeches invoking the armed forces in the context of the Balakot aerial strikes and on issues relating to minorities. EC sources said it needs to be clarified categorically and unambiguously that this was purely an internal matter of the Election Commission and as such any speculation, innuendoes and insinuations in this regard should be eschewed.

Ill-timed controversies must be avoided: Chief Election Commissioner hits back at Ashok Lavasa, denies reports of rift in EC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday.&nbsp;

More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama terror attack which led to demands that India should boycott the Pakistan game in the World Cup in Manchester on June 16.

Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket wrote a letter to the ICC urging it boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates" but did not specifically name Pakistan.&nbsp;

The quarterly meeting of the ICC will start in Dubai on Wednesday with the Chief Executives (CEC) meeting where BCCI CEO Rahul Johri's letter will be tabled and the matter will be discussed.

The BCCI had expressed its concern about the safety of the players and officials during the World Cup which starts May 30 in England.&nbsp;

"The ICC will provide all the details of the security arrangements made for the World Cup. It will be same for all the participating nations and England and Wales Cricket

Board have always provided top-notch arrangements," a senior BCCI official privy to the ICC's functioning told PTI on conditions of anonymity.&nbsp;

"But since there has been an apprehension, the doubts will be cleared," the official added.

However, it is learnt that ICC is unlikely to even discuss the possibility of boycotting Pakistan as it is not a "feasible option".

"The ICC is in no position to ask any cricket board to sever ties with another member nation. It doesn't have the right to do so. This is a diplomatic issue which is dealt with at the government level.

"A member board can always discuss the issue if they want but one can be rest assured that nothing will happen," said the official, who has been a part of many ICC meetings.

Opinion has been divided on the calls for boycott with former India captain Sourav Ganguly and senior off-spinner Harbhajan Singh wanting the June 16 match to be called off.

However, they haven't clarified what happens if Pakistan make it to the semifinals or the final.

On the other hand, two of the biggest names in Indian cricket, Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, want India to beat Pakistan as a walkover would mean giving two points on a platter to the arch-rivals.

Skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri have maintained that they will "abide by whatever decision the government takes."&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday. More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama terror attack which led to demands that India should boycott the Pakistan game in the World Cup in Manchester on June 16. Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket wrote a letter to the ICC urging it boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates" but did not specifically name Pakistan. The quarterly meeting of the ICC will start in Dubai on Wednesday with the Chief Executives (CEC) meeting where BCCI CEO Rahul Johri's letter will be tabled and the matter will be discussed. The BCCI had expressed its concern about the safety of the players and officials during the World Cup which starts May 30 in England. "The ICC will provide all the details of the security arrangements made for the World Cup. It will be same for all the participating nations and England and Wales Cricket Board have always provided top-notch arrangements," a senior BCCI official privy to the ICC's functioning told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "But since there has been an apprehension, the doubts will be cleared," the official added. However, it is learnt that ICC is unlikely to even discuss the possibility of boycotting Pakistan as it is not a "feasible option". "The ICC is in no position to ask any cricket board to sever ties with another member nation. It doesn't have the right to do so. This is a diplomatic issue which is dealt with at the government level. "A member board can always discuss the issue if they want but one can be rest assured that nothing will happen," said the official, who has been a part of many ICC meetings. Opinion has been divided on the calls for boycott with former India captain Sourav Ganguly and senior off-spinner Harbhajan Singh wanting the June 16 match to be called off. However, they haven't clarified what happens if Pakistan make it to the semifinals or the final. On the other hand, two of the biggest names in Indian cricket, Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, want India to beat Pakistan as a walkover would mean giving two points on a platter to the arch-rivals. Skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri have maintained that they will "abide by whatever decision the government takes."

CEC meet: ICC unlikely to discuss boycott of Pakistan from 2019 World Cup

A delegation of senior BJP leaders have decided to meet Chief Election Commissioner on Monday to register a complaint&nbsp;about West Bengal government blocking rallies of senior party leaders in the state.

The move has come after the West Bengal government led by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/yogi-adityanath-addresses-rally-in-west-bengal-via-audio-link-after-his-chopper-was-denied-permission-194825">Mamata Banerjee denied permission</a> for the landing of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath's chopper in the state on Sunday.

Following the denial, Adityanath addressed rallies&nbsp;via&nbsp;video&nbsp;link at&nbsp;Raiganj and&nbsp;Balurghat in the state.

"The TMC government didn't allow me to come and meet you all. That is why I had to resort to Digital India of Modi-ji to address you. This TMC government is anti-people, anti-democratic and have compromised with national security," PTI quoted Adityanath as saying.

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The West Bengal government had earlier in January also refused landing permission&nbsp;to BJP president&nbsp;Amit Shah's chopper. The government had cited ongoing "upgradation" of the Malda area.

Shah was however granted permission later to address a rally.

&nbsp;

A delegation of senior BJP leaders have decided to meet Chief Election Commissioner on Monday to register a complaint about West Bengal government blocking rallies of senior party leaders in the state.

A delegation of senior BJP leaders have decided to meet Chief Election Commissioner on Monday to register a complaint about West Bengal government blocking rallies of senior party leaders in the state. The move has come after the West Bengal government led by Mamata Banerjee denied permission for the landing of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath's chopper in the state on Sunday. Following the denial, Adityanath addressed rallies via video link at Raiganj and Balurghat in the state. "The TMC government didn't allow me to come and meet you all. That is why I had to resort to Digital India of Modi-ji to address you. This TMC government is anti-people, anti-democratic and have compromised with national security," PTI quoted Adityanath as saying. A delegation of senior BJP leaders to meet Chief Election Commissioner on Monday. BJP will complain about West Bengal govt blocking rallies of senior BJP leaders. pic.twitter.com/KNR5F7hc7t — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × The West Bengal government had earlier in January also refused landing permission to BJP president Amit Shah's chopper. The government had cited ongoing "upgradation" of the Malda area. Shah was however granted permission later to address a rally.

BJP to meet Chief Election Commissioner, complain about West Bengal government blocking its rallies

Amid the opposition parties demand for a return to the ballot boxes in the electoral process ahead of the Lok Sabha elections alleging EVM tampering, the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora clearly stated that they are not going back to the ballot boxes.

“We have been using EVMs for more than two decades now. No way are we going back to the ballot boxes. Some political parties demanded that VVPATs be used in all polling booths. Some parties demanded that results from all EVMs be matched with VVPAT slips. Commission has informed the political parties that VVPATs will be used in all polling booths countrywide in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections,” said Arora, adding, “The commission has firm belief and convinced that EVM and VVPAT machines are secure and have proved effective on all the parameters. As per extant practice, VVPAT slips will be matched with EVM vote count in one randomly selected polling station of each assembly segment of a parliamentary constituency.”

He further added that for the first time, the state will have VVPATs across all the polling booths. “For the first time in the entire state, VVPATs will also be used at all polling booths along with the EVM machines. Thus the officers need to ensure due awareness to all stakeholders about proper usage of the machines. The officers were also asked to strictly adhere to the laid down procedures and Standard Operating Procedures about use, storage and transportation of the machines in all the constituencies.”

Arora, along with the Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa led the full bench of Election Commission of India to conduct a two-day review of poll preparedness in the state of West Bengal.

During the visit, the Commission met with representatives of various political parties and noted their issues and concerns. The Commission took note of their concerns for holding free, fair and peaceful elections. The Commission reviewed the work of District Election Officers, Commissioner of Police/SPs, and discussed election preparedness with Chief Secretary, DGP, Home Secretary and other senior Officials of the State.

On the second day of the visit, the ECI officials met the Nodal officers of Income Tax, Excise, Commercial Tax departments and with State Level Bankers Committee convener to review in detail the strategy to curb misuse of money/drugs/liquor and gifts distribution during the election.

Amid the opposition parties demand for a return to the ballot boxes in the electoral process ahead of the Lok Sabha elections alleging EVM tampering, the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora clearly stated that they are not going back to the ballot boxes.

Amid the opposition parties demand for a return to the ballot boxes in the electoral process ahead of the Lok Sabha elections alleging EVM tampering, the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora clearly stated that they are not going back to the ballot boxes. “We have been using EVMs for more than two decades now. No way are we going back to the ballot boxes. Some political parties demanded that VVPATs be used in all polling booths. Some parties demanded that results from all EVMs be matched with VVPAT slips. Commission has informed the political parties that VVPATs will be used in all polling booths countrywide in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections,” said Arora, adding, “The commission has firm belief and convinced that EVM and VVPAT machines are secure and have proved effective on all the parameters. As per extant practice, VVPAT slips will be matched with EVM vote count in one randomly selected polling station of each assembly segment of a parliamentary constituency.” He further added that for the first time, the state will have VVPATs across all the polling booths. “For the first time in the entire state, VVPATs will also be used at all polling booths along with the EVM machines. Thus the officers need to ensure due awareness to all stakeholders about proper usage of the machines. The officers were also asked to strictly adhere to the laid down procedures and Standard Operating Procedures about use, storage and transportation of the machines in all the constituencies.” Arora, along with the Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa led the full bench of Election Commission of India to conduct a two-day review of poll preparedness in the state of West Bengal. During the visit, the Commission met with representatives of various political parties and noted their issues and concerns. The Commission took note of their concerns for holding free, fair and peaceful elections. The Commission reviewed the work of District Election Officers, Commissioner of Police/SPs, and discussed election preparedness with Chief Secretary, DGP, Home Secretary and other senior Officials of the State. On the second day of the visit, the ECI officials met the Nodal officers of Income Tax, Excise, Commercial Tax departments and with State Level Bankers Committee convener to review in detail the strategy to curb misuse of money/drugs/liquor and gifts distribution during the election.

Not going back to the ballot boxes: Chief Election Commissioner

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora on Friday sought an explanation from the Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar after he skipped the two-day Election Commission’s review meeting in the state.

“Kolkata Police commissioner was replaced by the special commissioner. We asked him where was he and said that he doesn’t know the whereabouts of the commissioner and added that he had been asked to attend the meet. We have sought an explanation from the controlling officer of the Police Commissioner. They will give us in writing why he skipped the meet,” said Arora, adding “Someone told me it was his birthday.”

&nbsp;According to sources, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) had asked the ADG Law and Order to convey to the Kolkata Police Commissioner that he must attend the meet on the second day, however, he stayed away today too. Reacting strongly to the move of the Kolkata Police Commissioner staying away from the meeting, the CEC sought an explanation from the home secretary – the controlling officer of the police commissioner.

On being quizzed whether the present prevailing conditions in the state are conducive to hold free and fair polls, the CEC said that there is room for improvement.

Sources reveal that commission was unhappy with the police in relation to the execution of non-bailable warrants. “The Commission has directed the District Magistrates and police officers to carefully look into law and order concerns. They have been asked to ensure speedy execution of non-bailable warrants (NBWs) and speedy disposal of pending cases of the electoral offences from last elections,” added Arora.

The full bench of Election Commission of India (ECI) was on a two-day visit to Kolkata to review poll preparedness in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

On the first day of the visit, the Election Commission officials held a meeting with all the political parties in the state. The second meeting was held with all the district Superintend of Police, District Magistrate and DEOs. The third meeting was held with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and nodal officers from the Bengal Police.

On the second day, the Election Commission held meetings with the Excise department, IT department, transport department. Later in the day, the commission held a meeting with the West Bengal Chief Secretary and Director General of West Bengal Police.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora on Friday sought an explanation from the Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar after he skipped the two-day Election Commission’s review meeting in the state.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora on Friday sought an explanation from the Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar after he skipped the two-day Election Commission’s review meeting in the state. “Kolkata Police commissioner was replaced by the special commissioner. We asked him where was he and said that he doesn’t know the whereabouts of the commissioner and added that he had been asked to attend the meet. We have sought an explanation from the controlling officer of the Police Commissioner. They will give us in writing why he skipped the meet,” said Arora, adding “Someone told me it was his birthday.” According to sources, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) had asked the ADG Law and Order to convey to the Kolkata Police Commissioner that he must attend the meet on the second day, however, he stayed away today too. Reacting strongly to the move of the Kolkata Police Commissioner staying away from the meeting, the CEC sought an explanation from the home secretary – the controlling officer of the police commissioner. On being quizzed whether the present prevailing conditions in the state are conducive to hold free and fair polls, the CEC said that there is room for improvement. Sources reveal that commission was unhappy with the police in relation to the execution of non-bailable warrants. “The Commission has directed the District Magistrates and police officers to carefully look into law and order concerns. They have been asked to ensure speedy execution of non-bailable warrants (NBWs) and speedy disposal of pending cases of the electoral offences from last elections,” added Arora. The full bench of Election Commission of India (ECI) was on a two-day visit to Kolkata to review poll preparedness in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. On the first day of the visit, the Election Commission officials held a meeting with all the political parties in the state. The second meeting was held with all the district Superintend of Police, District Magistrate and DEOs. The third meeting was held with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and nodal officers from the Bengal Police. On the second day, the Election Commission held meetings with the Excise department, IT department, transport department. Later in the day, the commission held a meeting with the West Bengal Chief Secretary and Director General of West Bengal Police.

CEC seeks explanation from Kolkata Police commissioner over his absence in poll review meet

Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Naveen Chawla on Tuesday said that EVM was “<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/evm-hacking-claim-centre-alleges-congress-organised-hackathon-in-london-opposition-calls-for-switch-to-ballot-box-191969">a very good and fine machine</a>” and cautioned against returning to the use of ballot papers for conducting the polls.

“I endorse that EVM is a very good and fine machine. We should never go back to ballot papers,” Chawla told ANI here while commenting on the current furore over the EVM Hackathon held in London on Monday.

“My position is very clear about EVM. Election Commission’s EVMs are manufactured by two public sector companies under highly-secret conditions. These machines were made in 2000 and have been used continuously since 2006,” he said.

“It is just that those who win the elections don`t say anything about EVM, whereas those who lose challenge EVMs,” he said while hailing India’s electoral process.

“I have visited many countries as an election observer. Our system is of 100 per cent accountability.”

Talking about ‘cyber-security researcher’ Syed Shuja’s claim regarding EVM hacking, he said, “This is very unfortunate. Raising such an issue is very distasteful.”

“I was at the helm of affairs during 2009 General Elections. We got 100 machines and installed cameras. It was an open invitation to hack EVMs and people were called to demonstrate hacking if it is possible and no one could do it,” added Chawla.

Responding to the chorus of using ballot papers for elections, former CEC said, “I have argued this in my book that long ago there was a major problem of booth capturing.”

“Also very often the stamp is not clearly marked, which lead to a large number of invalid votes. EVMs have made the process neat and clean,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Police on Tuesday said to investigate the claim made by Shuja that EVMs can be tampered with, as a political row erupted over the issue.

Amid the claims by the so-called hacker, there were renewed calls by some Opposition parties for finding an alternative to the EVMs, including the return to the use of ballot papers, in the coming Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Naveen Chawla on Tuesday said that EVM was “a very good and fine machine” and cautioned against returning to the use of ballot papers for conducting the polls.

Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Naveen Chawla on Tuesday said that EVM was “a very good and fine machine” and cautioned against returning to the use of ballot papers for conducting the polls. “I endorse that EVM is a very good and fine machine. We should never go back to ballot papers,” Chawla told ANI here while commenting on the current furore over the EVM Hackathon held in London on Monday. “My position is very clear about EVM. Election Commission’s EVMs are manufactured by two public sector companies under highly-secret conditions. These machines were made in 2000 and have been used continuously since 2006,” he said. “It is just that those who win the elections don`t say anything about EVM, whereas those who lose challenge EVMs,” he said while hailing India’s electoral process. “I have visited many countries as an election observer. Our system is of 100 per cent accountability.” Talking about ‘cyber-security researcher’ Syed Shuja’s claim regarding EVM hacking, he said, “This is very unfortunate. Raising such an issue is very distasteful.” “I was at the helm of affairs during 2009 General Elections. We got 100 machines and installed cameras. It was an open invitation to hack EVMs and people were called to demonstrate hacking if it is possible and no one could do it,” added Chawla. Responding to the chorus of using ballot papers for elections, former CEC said, “I have argued this in my book that long ago there was a major problem of booth capturing.” “Also very often the stamp is not clearly marked, which lead to a large number of invalid votes. EVMs have made the process neat and clean,” he said. Meanwhile, the Delhi Police on Tuesday said to investigate the claim made by Shuja that EVMs can be tampered with, as a political row erupted over the issue. Amid the claims by the so-called hacker, there were renewed calls by some Opposition parties for finding an alternative to the EVMs, including the return to the use of ballot papers, in the coming Lok Sabha polls.

Former CEC Naveen Chawla says EVM 'a fine machine', cautions against returning to ballot papers

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sunil-arora-takes-charge-as-new-chief-election-commissioner-of-india-180847">Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora</a> Friday lamented that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were being treated like a "football" by parties suffering electoral losses, and said the voting equipment was foolproof as far as fears of manipulation were concerned.

Talking to reporters here upon the conclusion of his two-day tour of Bihar, the CEC, heading a team of the poll panel, said though EVMs could suffer occasional technical snags, they were promptly fixed.

"It is not possible to manipulate the EVMs. It is definitely foolproof as far as apprehensions of conspiracy and manipulation are concerned. But technical snags are possible as in case of any other device," he said.

"But the incidence of snags has been very low. In the recent assembly polls in five states, 1.76 lakh EVMs were installed out of which only six reported the malfunction. The complaints were promptly taken care of," Arora claimed.

Asked about apprehensions expressed about EVMs by several parties, he said they had noticed that whenever a party lost an election it started having complaints about EVMs which vanished the moment it won.&nbsp;

"It is my request to all, please do not make EVMs a football," Arora said.

He said VVPATs were introduced to address the misgivings that people might have about EVMs.&nbsp;

"The Lok Sabha polls would see the use of these on a still larger scale. The Election Commission is committed to holding the elections in a free and fair manner," he said.

Replying to a query regarding the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he said once all preparations are complete and the election schedule drawn, the EC would announce it at a press conference in New Delhi.

He also said during the EC team's tour of Bihar, instructions were issued for completing the revision of electoral rolls by January 31.

Earlier, on Thursday upon its arrival in the city, the EC team had interacted with representatives of various political parties which had come up with suggestions to improve the poll process.

While the RJD had come out strongly against the EVMs and advocated reverting to the use of ballot papers, the JD(U) had stressed on making VVPATs available at every polling booth.

The CPI came up with an elaborate list of suggestions which included limiting the number of voters in a booth to 800 and setting up mobile polling stations which could be of help to those having difficulty in travelling to their respective booths.

The BJP requested that complaints of anomalies in electoral rolls be seriously looked into and resolved.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Talking to reporters here upon the conclusion of his two-day tour of Bihar, the CEC, heading a team of the poll panel, said though EVMs could suffer occasional technical snags, they were promptly fixed.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora Friday lamented that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were being treated like a "football" by parties suffering electoral losses, and said the voting equipment was foolproof as far as fears of manipulation were concerned. Talking to reporters here upon the conclusion of his two-day tour of Bihar, the CEC, heading a team of the poll panel, said though EVMs could suffer occasional technical snags, they were promptly fixed. "It is not possible to manipulate the EVMs. It is definitely foolproof as far as apprehensions of conspiracy and manipulation are concerned. But technical snags are possible as in case of any other device," he said. "But the incidence of snags has been very low. In the recent assembly polls in five states, 1.76 lakh EVMs were installed out of which only six reported the malfunction. The complaints were promptly taken care of," Arora claimed. Asked about apprehensions expressed about EVMs by several parties, he said they had noticed that whenever a party lost an election it started having complaints about EVMs which vanished the moment it won. "It is my request to all, please do not make EVMs a football," Arora said. He said VVPATs were introduced to address the misgivings that people might have about EVMs. "The Lok Sabha polls would see the use of these on a still larger scale. The Election Commission is committed to holding the elections in a free and fair manner," he said. Replying to a query regarding the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he said once all preparations are complete and the election schedule drawn, the EC would announce it at a press conference in New Delhi. He also said during the EC team's tour of Bihar, instructions were issued for completing the revision of electoral rolls by January 31. Earlier, on Thursday upon its arrival in the city, the EC team had interacted with representatives of various political parties which had come up with suggestions to improve the poll process. While the RJD had come out strongly against the EVMs and advocated reverting to the use of ballot papers, the JD(U) had stressed on making VVPATs available at every polling booth. The CPI came up with an elaborate list of suggestions which included limiting the number of voters in a booth to 800 and setting up mobile polling stations which could be of help to those having difficulty in travelling to their respective booths. The BJP requested that complaints of anomalies in electoral rolls be seriously looked into and resolved.

EVMs being treated like football by parties suffering electoral losses: Chief Election Commissioner

Merely four days before the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-election-violence-youths-carrying-awami-league-banner-attack-bnp-candidate-186668">11th General Elections</a>, the Jatiya Oikya Front here has called for the Chief Election Commissioner's (CEC) resignation, accusing him of bias.&nbsp;

This comes in the aftermath of a delegation belonging to the alliance walking out of a meeting with the CEC, KM Nurul Huda, on December 25 over the latter`s "discourteous" behaviour.

"When we began to complain about the police role, he [CEC] took their side. We Don`t expect such behaviour" The Daily Star quoted Nazrul Islam Khan from the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-bangladesh-election-results-will-impact-its-ties-with-india-186618">Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)</a> as saying.&nbsp;

Furthermore, BNP`s Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "His behaviour was discourteous," while referring to the CEC.&nbsp;

The alliance later called a presser on Tuesday night and demanded the CEC`s resignation and pushed for the appointment of a "neutral person" so that a free and fair election is conducted.&nbsp;

Kamal Hossain led the Front`s delegation at the meeting yesterday and put forth their concerns regarding the violence against leaders and party workers from the opposition in the run-up to Sunday`s elections.&nbsp;

He also complained about police action and mentioned that a few members from the police forces were acting like "beasts".

"You cannot label a force in such a way. Whatever police are doing are within the legal framework. Who do you think you are?" the CEC told Hossain in response.&nbsp;

The opposition front also called for the withdrawal of four police officials during Tuesday`s meeting.&nbsp;

Furthermore, it also claimed that the police refused to give them protection in the wake of violence initiated against them by rival parties.&nbsp;

The CEC rejected all allegations against the police forces, leading to the walk-out and the subsequent demand for resignation.&nbsp;

Merely four days before the 11th General Elections, the Jatiya Oikya Front here has called for the Chief Election Commissioner's (CEC) resignation, accusing him of bias.

Merely four days before the 11th General Elections, the Jatiya Oikya Front here has called for the Chief Election Commissioner's (CEC) resignation, accusing him of bias. This comes in the aftermath of a delegation belonging to the alliance walking out of a meeting with the CEC, KM Nurul Huda, on December 25 over the latter`s "discourteous" behaviour. "When we began to complain about the police role, he [CEC] took their side. We Don`t expect such behaviour" The Daily Star quoted Nazrul Islam Khan from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) as saying. Furthermore, BNP`s Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "His behaviour was discourteous," while referring to the CEC. The alliance later called a presser on Tuesday night and demanded the CEC`s resignation and pushed for the appointment of a "neutral person" so that a free and fair election is conducted. Kamal Hossain led the Front`s delegation at the meeting yesterday and put forth their concerns regarding the violence against leaders and party workers from the opposition in the run-up to Sunday`s elections. He also complained about police action and mentioned that a few members from the police forces were acting like "beasts". "You cannot label a force in such a way. Whatever police are doing are within the legal framework. Who do you think you are?" the CEC told Hossain in response. The opposition front also called for the withdrawal of four police officials during Tuesday`s meeting. Furthermore, it also claimed that the police refused to give them protection in the wake of violence initiated against them by rival parties. The CEC rejected all allegations against the police forces, leading to the walk-out and the subsequent demand for resignation.

Bangladesh poll: Opposition calls for CEC KM Nurul Huda's resignation

Senior IAS officer Sunil Arora appointed Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) by President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday.

Sunil Arora is a 1980-batch IAS officer belonging to the Rajasthan cadre 
will be taking over on December 2 and will be in charge of the poll body when the 2019 general elections take place, media reports said.

Arora will be replacing OP Rawat for the post of the poll panel chief.

An EC or CEC has a tenure of six years. But if officers turn 65 before that, they demit office.

Sunil Arora had been the Information and Broadcasting Secretary, and Secretary in the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

He has also worked in ministries and departments such as Finance, Textiles and Planning Commission.

He served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation during 1999-2002 and CMD, Indian Airlines for five years (two years as an additional charge and three years as full charge).

In Rajasthan, besides district postings in Dholpur, Alwar, Nagaur and Jodhpur, he was Secretary to the Chief Minister during 1993-1998 and Principal Secretary to CM (2005- 2008) and handled Information and Public Relations (IPR), Industries and Investment Departments.

Senior IAS officer Sunil Arora appointed Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) by President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday. Sunil Arora is a 1980-batch IAS officer belonging to the Rajasthan cadre will be taking over on December 2 and will be in charge of the poll body when the 2019 general elections take place, media reports said.

Senior IAS officer Sunil Arora appointed Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) by President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday. Sunil Arora is a 1980-batch IAS officer belonging to the Rajasthan cadre will be taking over on December 2 and will be in charge of the poll body when the 2019 general elections take place, media reports said. Arora will be replacing OP Rawat for the post of the poll panel chief. An EC or CEC has a tenure of six years. But if officers turn 65 before that, they demit office. Sunil Arora had been the Information and Broadcasting Secretary, and Secretary in the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. He has also worked in ministries and departments such as Finance, Textiles and Planning Commission. He served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation during 1999-2002 and CMD, Indian Airlines for five years (two years as an additional charge and three years as full charge). In Rajasthan, besides district postings in Dholpur, Alwar, Nagaur and Jodhpur, he was Secretary to the Chief Minister during 1993-1998 and Principal Secretary to CM (2005- 2008) and handled Information and Public Relations (IPR), Industries and Investment Departments.

Sunil Arora appointed chief election commissioner, to take charge on 2 December

AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal met Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat Friday alleging that names of party supporters have been deleted from voters’ list, and claimed that the EC has agreed to take up a verification exercise at two places in Delhi. He accused the ruling BJP of having gotten the names deleted from the voters’ list in “collusion” with lower-rung officials because it was apparently staring at a defeat in 2019 general elections.

“It’s possible your name is deleted but you can not check it on Election Commission website because an old list is there. We have appealed to them (EC) to upload the names deleted till October 31,” Kejriwal said. On Thursday, Kejriwal had written to Rawat, seeking an appointment to raise the matter. In the letter, he had said a cursory look on the deleted names “showed” most of them were AAP or Congress voters. He also alleged the deletion of names might have been done by officials “at the instance of BJP”.

During his meeting with Rawat Friday, Kejriwal was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. Kejriwal said the Election Commission informed him that 10 lakh voters’ names were deleted and 13 lakh were added since the last assembly election in Delhi in 2015. “Most of the deleted names are those of our volunteers, family members of MLAs and others supporting the party,” he claimed.

Kejriwal also demanded that “strict action” be taken against officials found guilty in the matter. The Election Commission has agreed for a sample survey in Lalkuan and Tughlaqabad by its officials in presence of representatives of political parties. The verification will be video recorded, he said.

“If it is found that names have been deleted wrongly, not only guilty officials will be punished but the exercise will be carried out in all assembly segments in Delhi, Election Commission said,” he told reporters. The AAP has said a “verification inquiry” directed by Kejriwal found that nine names of AAP volunteers were deleted without proper verification of their addresses. If lists of deleted names are uploaded on Election Commission website political parties can at least help people get their names added to the voters’ list, he said adding the commission has rejected the demand to provide soft copies of deleted names to political parties.

AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal met Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat Friday alleging that names of party supporters have been deleted from voters’ list, and claimed that the EC has agreed to take up a verification exercise at two places in Delhi.

AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal met Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat Friday alleging that names of party supporters have been deleted from voters’ list, and claimed that the EC has agreed to take up a verification exercise at two places in Delhi. He accused the ruling BJP of having gotten the names deleted from the voters’ list in “collusion” with lower-rung officials because it was apparently staring at a defeat in 2019 general elections. “It’s possible your name is deleted but you can not check it on Election Commission website because an old list is there. We have appealed to them (EC) to upload the names deleted till October 31,” Kejriwal said. On Thursday, Kejriwal had written to Rawat, seeking an appointment to raise the matter. In the letter, he had said a cursory look on the deleted names “showed” most of them were AAP or Congress voters. He also alleged the deletion of names might have been done by officials “at the instance of BJP”. During his meeting with Rawat Friday, Kejriwal was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. Kejriwal said the Election Commission informed him that 10 lakh voters’ names were deleted and 13 lakh were added since the last assembly election in Delhi in 2015. “Most of the deleted names are those of our volunteers, family members of MLAs and others supporting the party,” he claimed. Kejriwal also demanded that “strict action” be taken against officials found guilty in the matter. The Election Commission has agreed for a sample survey in Lalkuan and Tughlaqabad by its officials in presence of representatives of political parties. The verification will be video recorded, he said. “If it is found that names have been deleted wrongly, not only guilty officials will be punished but the exercise will be carried out in all assembly segments in Delhi, Election Commission said,” he told reporters. The AAP has said a “verification inquiry” directed by Kejriwal found that nine names of AAP volunteers were deleted without proper verification of their addresses. If lists of deleted names are uploaded on Election Commission website political parties can at least help people get their names added to the voters’ list, he said adding the commission has rejected the demand to provide soft copies of deleted names to political parties.

Arvind Kejriwal meets CEC over deletion of names from voters’ list

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise.&nbsp;

Speaking at the annual Sir Syed Day celebrations, Quraishi said India was a land of minorities and the hallmark of the world's largest democracy was to hold "inclusive" elections.

He said that the largest minority in the country were women as they constitute 49 per cent of the electorate and if they were unable to exercise their right to franchise, either because of fear or any law and order issue, it would question the very foundation of the country's democratic process.

What makes India's elections a very special feature in the world's democratic system, is that there is no country in the world which has such a large diversity of religion, caste and language, he said.

It is therefore imperative that this wide canvas of diversity is preserved and protected through our democratic institutions, he added.

Referring to the role of the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Quraishi said that he was amongst the pioneering figures in nineteenth century India who championed the cause not just of modern education but the critical importance of reconciliation and pluralism.

He was a leading votary of interfaith understanding and communication, he said.

A special feature of this year's annual celebrations was the bestowing of Sir Syed Excellence Award upon Sanjiv Saraf, founder of Rekhta Foundation, which is India's largest social movement for promoting the cause of Urdu and cross-cultural understanding.&nbsp;

Saraf was given a citation and a prize of Rs one lakh for his ongoing efforts in the field.

The second award in the sphere of studies on the contribution of Sir Syed was given to Christian W. Troll for his writings on the AMU founder. Troll is at present the adviser to the Pope.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of AMU, Tariq Mansoor said that the university was making a rapid stride in the field of technology and emerging sciences.&nbsp;

In this connection, several new programmes including M. Voc., M. Arch., MDS (Pedodontics) have been introduced while intake capacity in several courses has been enhanced.&nbsp;

He said that the AMU was ready to play a leading role in the task of nation building and promoting a culture of pluralism and interfaith understanding.

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise.

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise. Speaking at the annual Sir Syed Day celebrations, Quraishi said India was a land of minorities and the hallmark of the world's largest democracy was to hold "inclusive" elections. He said that the largest minority in the country were women as they constitute 49 per cent of the electorate and if they were unable to exercise their right to franchise, either because of fear or any law and order issue, it would question the very foundation of the country's democratic process. What makes India's elections a very special feature in the world's democratic system, is that there is no country in the world which has such a large diversity of religion, caste and language, he said. It is therefore imperative that this wide canvas of diversity is preserved and protected through our democratic institutions, he added. Referring to the role of the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Quraishi said that he was amongst the pioneering figures in nineteenth century India who championed the cause not just of modern education but the critical importance of reconciliation and pluralism. He was a leading votary of interfaith understanding and communication, he said. A special feature of this year's annual celebrations was the bestowing of Sir Syed Excellence Award upon Sanjiv Saraf, founder of Rekhta Foundation, which is India's largest social movement for promoting the cause of Urdu and cross-cultural understanding. Saraf was given a citation and a prize of Rs one lakh for his ongoing efforts in the field. The second award in the sphere of studies on the contribution of Sir Syed was given to Christian W. Troll for his writings on the AMU founder. Troll is at present the adviser to the Pope. Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of AMU, Tariq Mansoor said that the university was making a rapid stride in the field of technology and emerging sciences. In this connection, several new programmes including M. Voc., M. Arch., MDS (Pedodontics) have been introduced while intake capacity in several courses has been enhanced. He said that the AMU was ready to play a leading role in the task of nation building and promoting a culture of pluralism and interfaith understanding.

Elections will be meaningful only if all sections of society participate: Former CEC

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