11 December 2025 | Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, recently met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss the appointments of the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC), the Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), and eight Information Commissioners. The meeting, which lasted for over an hour, saw Gandhi submitting a dissent note regarding all the names proposed by the government.
Gandhi’s Strong Objections
During the meeting, Gandhi expressed strong objections against the government’s selections in the appointment committee. He did not endorse any of the proposed names, indicating significant disagreement with the choices made by the ruling party. Sources revealed that Gandhi’s dissent was rooted in concerns over the integrity of the selection process.
Accusations Against the BJP
Outside the meeting, Gandhi accused the BJP of manipulating the Election Commission for “vote chori” or vote theft. He raised critical questions about the removal of the Chief Justice from the selection committee, the near-total legal protection granted to the Election Commission before the 2024 elections, and the urgency to destroy CCTV footage within 45 days. He suggested these actions indicate an attempt to facilitate electoral malpractice.
Electoral Reforms Debate
Gandhi’s criticisms extended to a Lok Sabha debate on electoral reforms held a day prior, where he alleged that the BJP was undermining India’s democracy through electoral malpractice. He warned that a future Congress government would retroactively amend the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Tenure) Act, 2023, which he argued grants excessive powers to Election Commissioners while excluding the Chief Justice from the selection committee.
Concerns Over Election Integrity
Earlier on Wednesday, Gandhi intensified his critique of the BJP government, accusing it of politicizing the Election Commission. He posted a video clip of his Lok Sabha speech on social media, emphasizing the implications of recent amendments to election laws, including the removal of the Chief Justice from the EC selection panel and the decision to destroy CCTV footage within 45 days. Gandhi’s assertions raise alarms about the integrity of the upcoming elections.
In conclusion, Gandhi’s dissent and accusations highlight ongoing tensions surrounding electoral integrity and the role of the Election Commission, as the nation approaches crucial elections in 2024.
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