Congress demands CEC resignation, EVM review amid electoral row

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday articulated three demands he described as "non-negotiable" for his party, reflecting deepening tensions between the opposition INDIA bloc and the election commission over electoral procedures. The demands centre on the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, annulment of what Kharge referred to as the SIR, and a shift to ballot paper voting in place of electronic voting machines.

Kharge said Congress workers and allied INDIA bloc partners have mobilised across the country in support of these positions. The Congress chief claimed the party stands alongside civil society members and youth organisations pressing these issues in various states.

In a broader critique of the government, Kharge alleged the BJP has "harassed" female journalists in Delhi, calling such actions "highly condemnable." He characterised the ruling party's response as indicative of panic, suggesting the government is resorting to "distraction tactics."

The Congress president's statement underscores mounting opposition scrutiny of electoral administration and machinery, an issue that has gained prominence following recent election cycles in India. The three-pronged demand reflects broader concerns within opposition circles regarding electoral transparency and institutional independence.