Opposition Moves Fresh Notice in Rajya Sabha to Remove CEC Gyanesh Kumar; 73 MPs Back Motion
New Delhi, April 25, 2026:
In a significant escalation of political confrontation, opposition parties have submitted a fresh notice in the Rajya Sabhaseeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The motion is backed by 73 Members of Parliament from multiple opposition parties, signalling a coordinated push against the country’s top election authority.
Fresh Attempt After Earlier Rejection
The latest move comes just weeks after similar impeachment notices in both Houses of Parliament were rejected by presiding officers. The opposition has now filed a “fresh notice” citing new grounds and developments after March 2026, attempting to overcome earlier procedural setbacks.
The notice was formally submitted to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat by senior opposition leaders including Jairam Rameshand Sagarika Ghose.
Allegations of “Proven Misbehaviour”
At the core of the motion are nine charges of “proven misbehaviour” levelled against the CEC. These allegations include:
- Partisan enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)
- Alleged inaction on complaints against Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Public criticism of political parties by the Election Commission
- Alleged disenfranchisement of voters linked to electoral processes
- Claims of abuse of authority in administrative decisions
Opposition leaders argue that these actions reflect a “continued partisan asymmetry” and undermine the neutrality expected of a constitutional authority.
Constitutional Framework for Removal
The notice has been moved under Article 324(5) of the Constitution, which governs the removal of the CEC. The process is similar to that of removing a Supreme Court judge and involves:
- Acceptance of the motion by the presiding officer
- Formation of an inquiry committee
- Debate and voting in both Houses of Parliament
A successful motion would require a special majority, making the process politically and procedurally challenging.
Political Context and Timing
The move comes amid ongoing elections in several states, intensifying scrutiny of the Election Commission of India. Opposition parties, largely from the INDIA bloc, have accused the poll body of bias, while the government has not officially responded to the fresh notice.
This is also notable as one of the rare instances where a sitting CEC faces a formal removal motion in Parliament, highlighting the deepening political divide over electoral integrity.
What Happens Next
The Rajya Sabha Chairman will now decide whether the notice meets procedural requirements. If admitted, it could trigger a high-stakes parliamentary inquiry into the functioning of the Election Commission, potentially setting a major constitutional precedent.
Conclusion:
The opposition’s coordinated move, backed by 73 MPs, marks a serious institutional challenge to the Chief Election Commissioner. While the outcome remains uncertain due to the stringent removal process, the development underscores rising tensions over electoral governance and the role of constitutional bodies in India’s democracy.
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