Pilot attacks Gyanesh Kumar over Election Commission independence

Sachin Pilot, a senior Congress leader from Rajasthan, leveled accusations against Chief Secretary Gyanesh Kumar on Thursday, contending that recent administrative actions have compromised the independence of the Election Commission. Pilot specifically raised concerns about the State Information Register (SIR), asserting that it is being misused to selectively remove voters from electoral rolls.

The Congress leader's allegations extend beyond election management concerns. Pilot also mounted a broader critique of the Rajasthan government's response to the ongoing drought crisis affecting multiple districts. He argued that administration's handling of the agricultural distress has been inadequate and failed to provide sufficient relief to affected farming communities.

In his statement, Pilot further criticized the neighboring Punjab government led by the Aam Aadmi Party, suggesting that poor governance extends across state borders in the region. The remarks underscore growing tensions within Rajasthan's political establishment over election administration and drought management.

The allegations regarding voter deletion come at a time when electoral preparations are advancing in the state. The concerns raised by the Congress leader about the SIR's use could potentially trigger administrative scrutiny of voter registry procedures, though election authorities have not yet responded to the claims.