Gyanesh Kumar Appointed As Next Chief Election Commissioner, Congress Raises Objections

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.

Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge Question Rejection of Justices Nariman and KM Joseph for NHRC Chief in Dissent Note

Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi criticized the selection process for NHRC chairperson, finding it flawed and lacking consensus. They proposed Justices Rohinton Nariman and Kuttiyil Joseph for the role, emphasizing inclusivity. Despite their dissent, Justice V. Ramasubramanian was appointed as chairperson, raising concerns about fairness and representation within the NHRC.