Arun Goel Resigns As Election Commissioner Prior To Lok Sabha Elections
Political reactions to Goel's resignation vary, with some expressing apprehension about the transparency of the Election Commission's functioning.
Election Commissioner Arun Goel's sudden resignation has left the Election Commission of India with two vacancies, casting a shadow over the impending Lok Sabha polls. Accepting Goel's departure, the President's decision leaves Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar as the sole member of the three-member panel, raising concerns about the commission's functioning.
Goel attributed his resignation to personal reasons, despite attempts by the government to dissuade him. Although speculation arose regarding his health, officials clarified that Goel was in good health. The government now faces the task of appointing new election commissioners to fill the void left by Goel's departure.
A former 1985-batch IAS officer, Goel's appointment as Election Commissioner had raised eyebrows due to its swift nature. However, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging his appointment, affirming his position within the commission.
Goel's exit amplifies existing concerns about the commission's operational capacity, particularly with the retirement of the other Election Commissioner, Anup Pandey, last month. The absence of a complete panel ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha polls underscores the urgency in filling the vacancies to ensure effective oversight of the electoral process.
Political reactions to Goel's resignation vary, with some expressing apprehension about the transparency of the Election Commission's functioning. The appointment process for election commissioners has been a contentious issue, highlighted by a recent bill passed by Parliament. This bill replaced the involvement of the Chief Justice of India in the appointment panel with a Union Cabinet minister, drawing criticism for potentially undermining the commission's autonomy.
Goel's departure injects uncertainty into the electoral landscape, prompting scrutiny of the commission's operations and the appointment process for election commissioners. As the country awaits further developments, ensuring transparency and autonomy in the electoral process remains a pressing concern.
