CEC removal requires same process as Supreme Court judge: ECI tells court

The Election Commission of India has moved to defend the Chief Election Commissioner's tenure and powers, arguing before the top court that any attempt to constrain his functioning violates the 2023 Act governing electoral procedures. A common affidavit filed jointly by the EC, Chief Election Commissioner Kumar, and Election Commissioners Sandhu and Joshi emphasized that the CEC's removal can only occur through the constitutionally mandated process required for Supreme Court judges. The assertion underscores the constitutional safeguards designed to protect the independence of India's electoral administration from political interference. The affidavit also contested claims that certain electoral forms had been amended, specifically denying that Form 6 underwent any changes. In a related development, officers of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer filed appeals challenging inclusions in electoral rolls, reflecting ongoing administrative proceedings at the state level. The ECI's submission seeks to establish clear legal boundaries regarding the authority and removal procedures for the country's chief electoral officer, reinforcing institutional independence in election management.