J&K CM stirs controversy with Bharat Ratna call for election chief

The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir has waded into the ongoing controversy surrounding the Election Commission of India's conduct during West Bengal elections, suggesting the poll panel's chief deserves the Bharat Ratna award for delivering the state to the BJP.

The statement marks an escalation in political criticism of the ECI, with the J&K leader arguing that allegations against the election body extend beyond partisan complaints. According to his remarks, the charges levelled against the poll panel warrant serious introspection from the ECI itself, rather than dismissal as routine political opposition.

The comments underscore growing tension between regional political leaders and the election commission over its operational neutrality. West Bengal's electoral process has remained a focal point of such disputes, with various stakeholders questioning the ECI's impartiality and administrative decisions throughout the campaign and voting phases.

The Bharat Ratna suggestion, while provocative in tone, reflects deeper concerns raised by opposition voices regarding poll management and fairness. The ECI has faced mounting scrutiny from multiple quarters regarding its handling of electoral procedures, though it has previously maintained its commitment to conducting free and fair elections across the country.