The government has announced that Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar will take over as the next Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) after Rajiv Kumar. Gyanesh Kumar is currently the senior-most election commissioner after Rajiv Kumar. His appointment was confirmed late this evening. Gyanesh Kumar will oversee key elections, including assembly polls in five states: West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu (all ruled by the Opposition), and Bihar and Assam (both NDA-ruled). The Bihar election is set for later this year, while the others are scheduled for 2026.
Today, On 31st January, The Supreme Court has ordered the Election Commission of India (EC) to preserve CCTV footage of polling activities as it was done previously. This decision came after the Court granted further time for a respondent to file an affidavit, while emphasizing the need for maintaining transparency. The Court’s order aims to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and address concerns over possible malpractices.
Today, On 27th January, The Delhi High Court dismissed a petition seeking the cancellation of AAP’s registration due to alleged non-disclosure of criminal records by party members. The court found no substantial grounds to support the claims made in the plea. It emphasized the need for concrete evidence in such matters. This ruling highlights the principle of due process in addressing allegations against political entities.
The Enforcement Directorate has implicated K Kavitha and AAP leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal, in a corruption case linked to a Rs.100 crore payment related to Delhi’s liquor policy. Delhi’s Lt. Governor has recommended prosecuting Kejriwal, raising political tensions as the case continues with upcoming hearings and investigations into alleged irregularities.
The INDIA Bloc plans to approach the Supreme Court, alleging manipulation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Maharashtra’s recent assembly elections, causing significant concerns among opposition parties. As Delhi’s assembly elections approach, they strategize to ensure electoral fairness while facing losses attributed to EVM favoritism towards the ruling BJP-led coalition.
The Delhi Court is set to announce its decision on Engineer Rashid’s regular bail plea on November 20, following delays in ruling on his bail related to a terror-funding case. Rashid has been in Tihar jail since 2019, and the judge’s decision will also consider the case’s jurisdiction and possible transfer.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has petitioned the Bombay High Court to release seized Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and annul results from the Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg constituency, citing fraudulent practices by BJP’s Narayan Rane. The ECI seeks fresh elections amidst allegations of election law violations affecting voter integrity and candidate fairness.
The Jharkhand High Court, led by Acting Chief Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad and Justice Arun Kumar Rai, reserved its decision on a public interest litigation addressing ‘illegal’ Bangladeshi immigrants. Petitioner Danish Daniel alleged these immigrants disrupted local livelihoods. A fact-finding committee, proposed by the Union government, will investigate the issue further.
Today, On 18th September, the Modi government approved the Kovind panel’s recommendations for “One Nation, One Election,” aiming for simultaneous Lok Sabha, state, and local elections to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This initiative will undergo nationwide discussion, with implementation proposed in phases, although it faces criticism for potentially undermining federalism.
Today, On 17th September, Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Chief Minister, resigned following a Supreme Court order, and named Atishi as his successor. Atishi pledged to work for Kejriwal’s return and urged voters to support the party. She emphasized defending AAP against conspiracies and expressed both gratitude and sadness. Kejriwal called for early elections and declared his quest for “justice from the people’s court.”
