In a bold response to the accusations made by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the Election Commission (EC) has asserted its constitutional restraint and independence. The commission’s remarks followed Kejriwal’s claim that the EC had “surrendered” to the BJP and was under undue influence, specifically targeting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar’s post-retirement ambitions.
On Tuesday, the Election Commission issued a statement on social media platform X, addressing Kejriwal’s allegations from the previous day. The poll panel made it clear that it would not be swayed by “insinuations” or “deliberate pressure tactics” designed to malign its credibility. The EC stressed its role in maintaining fairness and transparency in the upcoming Delhi Assembly Elections, emphasizing that all actions taken by election officials are grounded in established legal frameworks and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure a non-partisan approach.
Kejriwal’s Accusations Against the EC
Arvind Kejriwal’s accusations surfaced on Monday when he claimed that the Election Commission had succumbed to pressure from the BJP. In a press conference, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader questioned the integrity of CEC Rajiv Kumar, hinting at possible post-retirement benefits, such as high-ranking political positions, which could influence the commission’s decisions.
Kejriwal remarked, “It seems as if the Election Commission does not exist. There are legitimate questions in people’s minds about the future of Rajiv Kumar, who is set to retire at the end of this month. What position could he be offered after retirement? Governor, President, or some other high post?” He urged the CEC to focus on his duties and not let personal desires or career ambitions undermine the nation’s democracy.
The accusations came in the context of ongoing political tensions in Delhi, particularly surrounding the New Delhi constituency, where Kejriwal alleged that BJP leader Parvesh Verma was distributing cash for votes. He further accused the Election Commission of failing to take action in response to these claims, intensifying his criticism of the commission.
Election Commission’s Response: Maintaining Independence
In its response, the Election Commission categorically stated that its decisions were made collectively by its three-member panel, and it would continue to function with “sagacity” and constitutional restraint. The statement emphasized that the EC, with the support of over 1.5 lakh officials, ensures that the electoral process is conducted fairly and impartially.
The poll panel also highlighted that it exercises its duties within a robust legal framework and follows well-established processes to prevent any influence from political parties. By refraining from engaging in partisan political discourse, the EC underlined its commitment to conducting elections with integrity and transparency.
“The Commission collectively noted repeated deliberate pressure tactics to malign ECI in the Delhi Elections,” the statement read, suggesting that the panel’s actions would remain guided by principles of fairness rather than external pressures or accusations.
Recent Tensions Between Kejriwal and the Election Commission
This is not the first time Arvind Kejriwal has clashed with the Election Commission. Earlier this month, the EC sought an explanation from Kejriwal for comments he made regarding water contamination in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led Haryana government of poisoning the Yamuna water supply. In his response, Kejriwal explained that his remarks were made in the context of an “urgent public health crisis” related to drinking water quality in the city.
The AAP leader’s ongoing disputes with the Election Commission come ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for Wednesday, with results expected to be announced on February 8. These tensions add to the already charged political environment in the capital, where accusations of corruption and electoral manipulation continue to dominate discussions.
Conclusion: Election Commission Stands Firm Amid Criticism
As the Delhi Assembly elections draw closer, the Election Commission has firmly reiterated its commitment to conducting free and fair elections. The body’s response to Kejriwal’s allegations demonstrates its resolve to maintain independence, despite attempts to undermine its authority. With the outcome of the election still uncertain, the Election Commission will continue to ensure the integrity of the electoral process, free from political interference.
