Opposition protests against CEC Gyanesh Kumar highlight electoral governance and voter rights concerns

The Hindu - News · 27 Sept 2026 · 2 min read
Prelims · Polity Mains · GS2 Governance High relevance

Multiple opposition groups demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation over alleged mass wrongful deletions during Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, raising critical questions about electoral integrity and voter rights.

Key points

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has reportedly led to wrongful deletions of voters, particularly affecting poor, marginalized, and migrant workers, as per surveys by CPI(ML) in Bihar constituencies.

Form 6 modifications by the Election Commission of India (ECI) are being criticized as attempts to restrict voter enrollment, especially among 'Gen Z', potentially violating universal suffrage principles.

CPI(ML) surveys in Bihar's Aigaon and Ziradei constituencies found 22.5% of deleted voters still residing in their villages, indicating significant errors in the SIR process.

Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) alleges SIR has disenfranchised working-class voters, linking it to broader concerns about social security access under new Labour Codes.

Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) demands amendments to the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023, criticizing its altered selection committee composition that gives government majority.

[GS2-Polity] The controversy underscores constitutional concerns under Article 324 regarding ECI's independence and its responsibility for free and fair elections.

[GS3-Governance] The allegations reveal systemic flaws in electoral roll maintenance, particularly affecting migrant populations, requiring urgent administrative reforms.

Delhi Police actions against protesters at Jantar Mantar raise questions about balancing democratic dissent with public order maintenance.

Way Forward: ECI should conduct an independent audit of SIR deletions, establish transparent voter enrollment protocols, and consider reinstating CJI in the selection committee to ensure institutional neutrality.

Key terms

Article 324

Constitutional provision vesting superintendence, direction and control of elections in the Election Commission. Its interpretation determines ECI's autonomy and powers, frequently appearing in polity questions about electoral governance.

Special Intensive Revision (SIR)

A periodic intensive review of electoral rolls conducted by the Election Commission to identify and remove duplicate/ineligible voters. UPSC relevance lies in its impact on electoral integrity, federalism (since states implement it), and fundamental voting rights under Article 326.

Form 6

The statutory application form for voter registration under the Representation of the People Act, 1950. Changes to its format/structure can significantly affect voter enrollment patterns, making it crucial for GS2 governance questions on electoral participation.

Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023

Legislation that altered the selection committee composition for EC appointments by replacing CJI with a Union Minister. Important for GS2 questions on institutional independence and separation of powers.