PolityGS-II· 1 min read
Election Commission of India under Scrutiny: DMK Demands CEC Removal and Return to Paper Ballots
Why in news?
The DMK party has demanded the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and advocated for a return to paper ballots, citing concerns over the credibility of EVMs and alleged voter list discrepancies during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
Key points
- DMK MPs passed a resolution demanding the removal and inquiry of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.
- Allegations of overriding objections of other Election Commissioners during the SIR.
- Demand for a return to paper ballots to restore public faith in elections.
- Concerns raised about alleged discrepancies between EVMs and VVPAT slips.
Background & context
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a constitutional body responsible for administering elections in India. Debates around the transparency and reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) have been ongoing. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process to update electoral rolls.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Article 324 of the Constitution establishes the Election Commission of India.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Legislature, Parliament and State Legislatures, Election Commission.