In the aftermath of Election Commissioner Arun Goel’s resignation, the opposition has raised concerns about the potential threat to democracy. The Congress party, in response to Goel stepping down, has termed the situation worrisome and called for clarification on the circumstances leading to his resignation. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that failure to prevent the orchestrated destruction of independent institutions could lead to a takeover by authoritarian forces.
Kharge emphasized the need for transparency in the wake of Goel’s resignation and questioned the government’s intentions. He pointed out that with only one Election Commissioner left after Goel’s departure and the announcement of Lok Sabha elections just around the corner, the situation demands immediate attention.
Arun Goel’s Resignation Raises Questions
Expressing his views on the matter, Kharge highlighted the critical role of institutions like the Election Commission in safeguarding democratic traditions. He argued that the current state of the Election Commission, especially after the recent retirements of Anoop Pandey and Arun Goel’s resignation, could undermine the integrity of the electoral process. Kharge called on the Modi government to address these concerns and provide a clear explanation.
Need for Transparency in Election Commission’s Functioning
Congress General Secretary C. Venugopal also stressed the importance of transparency in the functioning of the Election Commission. Venugopal posted on the social media platform ‘X’ that Goel’s resignation just ahead of the Lok Sabha elections is a matter of great concern for the world’s largest democracy. He criticized the lack of transparency in the operation of constitutional institutions like the Election Commission and accused the government of exerting pressure on the Commission.
How is a Constitutional Institution Like the Election Commission Functioning?
Venugopal’s post questioned the current state of constitutional institutions such as the Election Commission and argued that there is a complete lack of transparency. He stated that this incident demonstrates a tendency to erode democratic traditions. Venugopal called for a thorough clarification of the events and emphasized the need for the Election Commission to be completely impartial at all times.
“This is very concerning”: Trinamool
In response to the news of Arun Goel’s resignation, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) spokesperson Manoj Jha posted on ‘X,’ expressing concern over the timing, just a week before the likely announcement of the general elections. Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy also remarked on the appointment of two new Election Commissioners before the general elections, describing it as extremely concerning.
As questions arise over the impartiality and independence of the Election Commission, the timing and circumstances surrounding Arun Goel’s resignation continue to be subjects of intense scrutiny and debate.
