Sudden Resignation Ahead of Polls
In a sudden move, Election Commissioner Arun Goel tendered his resignation. Consequently, the President accepted Goel’s resignation with immediate effect as per a gazette notification issued late on Saturday. This resignation came days before the expected announcement of the Lok Sabha polls schedule. Moreover, it occurred within a month of Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey’s retirement. As a result, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar is now the sole member of the three-member commission.
Official Notification and Lack of Explanation
The Union Law and Justice Ministry notification stated precisely, “The President is pleased to accept the resignation tendered by Shri Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from the 9th of March, 2024.” However, no official communication explained the reasons behind Goel’s resignation. Similarly, there was no information on the plan for appointing new Election Commissioners.
Upcoming Crucial Elections
The terms of the Lok Sabha and the assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim end in June 2024. Therefore, these states will witness simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly polls.
Goel’s Controversial Appointment
Goel joined the Election Commission team in November 2022 amid controversies over his appointment process. Specifically, on November 18, 2022, the 1985-batch IAS officer received voluntary retirement. Then, the next day, the President appointed him as an Election Commissioner. Goel assumed charge on November 21, 2022. Subsequently, two days later, the Supreme Court asked the Centre to produce files related to his selection.
Supreme Court’s Stance
In August 2023, the Supreme Court refused to interfere with Goel’s appointment. The court stated a Constitution bench had already examined the process. Furthermore, this bench heard petitions recommending reforms in the EC appointment process. Later, in March 2023, the SC ruled EC appointments would occur through a committee. This committee would comprise the PM, Leader of Opposition, and Chief Justice of India. Consequently, Parliament approved a bill regarding the same.
Urgency for New Appointments
With the Commission’s full strength now reduced ahead of crucial polls, the government urgently needs to appoint new Election Commissioners swiftly.
