Former officials move impeachment against Chief Election Commissioner

A delegation representing former officials of the Election Commission of India has formally initiated impeachment proceedings against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, marking a significant challenge to his leadership of the constitutional body. The move follows what the delegation characterizes as repeated instances of institutional overreach and procedural violations during Kumar's tenure. The delegation's formal notice details six specific charges against the CEC, centring on his administrative approach and governance style. Among the key allegations is the assertion that Kumar has undertaken major decisions in the Election Commission's name without securing adequate consideration and consensus from fellow commission members. This practice, the delegation argues, has circumvented the collective decision-making framework that defines the commission's constitutional structure. The petitioners maintain that such unilateral action has undermined the commission's institutional integrity and departed from established protocols governing how the three-member body conducts its affairs. The delegation's move represents an unusual challenge to the CEC's authority and signals growing concerns among former election administrators regarding governance standards at India's premier electoral institution. The impeachment notice is expected to trigger a formal review process, with proceedings to be handled according to constitutional provisions governing the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner.