Bengaluru, Karnataka – Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Thursday called for the immediate resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, the Chief Minister also urged the Election Commission to scrap the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process and initiate a fresh revision of electoral data, emphasizing the need to safeguard democracy and every citizen's fundamental right to vote.
Shivakumar articulated that the right to vote equates to the right to live, a sentiment previously voiced by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi. He alleged concerted efforts to misuse the voting rights of ordinary citizens for political gain, citing similar attempts in West Bengal, Bihar, and other states, now extending to Karnataka. He also mentioned requesting additional time from the Election Commission the previous day.
The Chief Minister specifically pointed to alleged internal differences within the Election Commission, claiming that the autonomy granted to the poll panel was being exploited. "When a majority of the members do not agree with an opinion, a decision cannot be imposed unilaterally," Shivakumar stated, suggesting Gyanesh Kumar's voluntary resignation on moral grounds would be appropriate.
He reiterated his demand for the complete abandonment of the current SIR process, advocating for a new, transparent exercise. "We are not talking about Congress votes or BJP votes. Every citizen has the right to vote, and that is the right to live. Nobody can suppress that right," he asserted. Shivakumar questioned the methodology of the current electoral roll revision, particularly concerning Forms 6, 7, and 8, expressing concern that the process could disproportionately impact illiterate and disadvantaged sections of society. He stressed that this issue transcends mere opinion, representing a fundamental right and the voice of the common person.
Shivakumar further proposed that the matter be debated on broader platforms, including Parliament, and voiced opposition to any alleged pressure or intimidation faced by officials in various states under the Election Commission's name. He concluded by insisting on a fresh SIR, ensuring universal voting rights, a comprehensive review of the situation, and re-examination of all electoral data.
Image: mangalorean.com
📰 Source: Mangalorean News