Supreme Court expressed concern over inclusion of a cabinet minister in the panel for appointing Election Commissioners, observing that a minister may not oppose the Prime Minister during selection of the Chief Election Commissioner, asking “Why the show of independence.”
Today, On 6th May, The Supreme Court declined the Union Government’s request to postpone the hearing on the petitions challenging the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023. The bench said the matter required timely consideration.
Rahul Gandhi questioned why the Chief Justice of India (CJI) was removed from the panel that appoints Election Commissioners. He asked why this change was made and how it might affect fair elections. Gandhi stressed that judicial supervision is important for such key decisions. His statement comes as people discuss election reforms and the independence of institutions.
NEW DELHI: Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner, is set to retire in February, and this has once again drawn attention to an important issue before the Supreme Court. On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the court discussed the need to speed up a decision on the legality of a new law that impacts the appointment of Election Commissioners. This law gives significant control to the Central government.
Supreme Court Judge Justice Narasimha emphasized the need to keep India’s constitutional institutions free from political influence. Speaking at the Justice ES Venkataramiah Centennial Memorial Lecture at NLSIU, Bengaluru, he highlighted the importance of protecting the integrity of these institutions. He explained that staying neutral is crucial for these bodies to uphold the Constitution and serve the public fairly.
Today, On 3rd December, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna recused himself from hearing petitions challenging the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Act 2023, which removes the CJI from the appointment committee. The case will be heard by another bench starting January 6, 2025, as petitioners argue the law undermines the Election Commission’s independence established by a Supreme Court ruling.