Former CEC's Book Reveals Tensions Between ECI and UPA Government, Highlighting Institutional Independence

Hindustan Times - India · 15 Jul 2026 · 2 min read
Prelims · Polity Mains · GS2 Polity and constitution High relevance

Former Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi's forthcoming book reveals a 2012 confrontation between the Election Commission and UPA government over Congress leaders' attacks on ECI's constitutional authority, sparking debates about institutional independence.

Key points

SY Quraishi, former Chief Election Commissioner, recounts in his book how PM Manmohan Singh allegedly said 'I will commit suicide' when confronted about Congress leaders' attacks on ECI's authority during the 2012 UP Assembly elections.

The incident occurred after ECI censured then Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid for promising enhanced Muslim reservation during campaigning, violating the Model Code of Conduct.

ECI's constitutional authority under Article 324 was at stake, with Quraishi emphasizing the Commission's role as 'the soul of our democracy' in maintaining electoral integrity.

The BJP has used this revelation to criticize Congress' historical approach to constitutional bodies, while Congress defends its right to question ECI decisions as part of democratic accountability.

This connects to GS2-Polity as it highlights the critical relationship between elected governments and independent constitutional bodies in India's democratic framework.

The book also reveals Quraishi declined a PMO posting due to concerns about religious bias in appointments, touching on GS4-Ethics issues of meritocracy and institutional neutrality.

[GS3-Governance] The episode underscores the ongoing challenge of maintaining institutional independence while ensuring accountability in India's democratic governance structure.

Way Forward: Strengthen ECI's autonomy through statutory safeguards against political interference, establish clear protocols for addressing MCC violations by ministers, and institutionalize bipartisan consultations for major electoral reforms.

Key terms

Election Commission of India

A permanent constitutional body established under Article 324 of the Constitution to superintend, direct and control elections. Its independence is crucial for free and fair elections, with powers ranging from determining electoral schedules to enforcing the Model Code of Conduct.

Model Code of Conduct

A set of guidelines issued by ECI to regulate political parties and candidates during elections. While not legally enforceable, it serves as moral code to ensure level playing field, prevent misuse of power, and maintain electoral integrity.

Article 324

The constitutional provision vesting superintendence, direction and control of elections in the Election Commission. It forms the legal basis for ECI's extensive powers including conducting elections, enforcing MCC, and deciding on electoral disputes.

Institutional Independence

The principle that constitutional bodies like ECI must function free from executive interference to maintain their credibility. This is fundamental to India's separation of powers doctrine and checks-and-balances system.