Rahul Gandhi joins PM Modi, Arjun Meghwal for next CEC selection
In a surprising turn of events, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attended a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal to select the next Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India. The meeting took place as Rajiv Kumar, the current CEC, is set to retire on February 18.
According to reports quoting sources, Gyanesh Kumar is likely to be the next CEC. This development comes as a surprise, especially given Rahul Gandhi’s previous criticism of the Modi government’s handling of the selection process.
In 2020, Gandhi had strongly criticized the Modi government’s decision to remove Chief Justice of India, Sharad Arvind Bobde, from the selection panel for the appointment of the CEC. Gandhi had questioned the government’s motives and accused them of trying to undermine the independence of the Election Commission.
However, it appears that Rahul Gandhi has now put aside his differences with the Modi government and is willing to work with them to select the next CEC. The meeting between Gandhi, Modi, and Meghwal was reportedly a cordial one, and the three leaders discussed the process of selecting the next CEC.
The selection of the next CEC is a crucial one, as the Election Commission plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity and fairness of elections in India. The CEC is responsible for overseeing the conduct of elections, ensuring that the electoral rolls are accurate and up-to-date, and taking steps to prevent electoral malpractices.
Given the importance of the role, the selection process is typically a rigorous one, involving a thorough scrutiny of candidates by a high-powered committee. The committee typically comprises the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India.
In this case, the absence of the Chief Justice of India from the selection panel has raised concerns about the independence and impartiality of the process. However, the meeting between Gandhi, Modi, and Meghwal suggests that the government may be willing to work with the Opposition to ensure a smooth transition and the appointment of a capable and impartial CEC.
Gyanesh Kumar, the likely next CEC, is a seasoned bureaucrat with a long career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). He has served in various capacities, including as the Chief Secretary of Bihar and the Secretary to the Government of India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
Kumar has also served as the Chief Election Commissioner of Jharkhand and has been involved in several high-profile election exercises in the state. His experience and expertise make him a strong contender for the post of CEC, and his appointment is likely to be welcomed by the citizens of India.
In conclusion, Rahul Gandhi’s decision to attend the meeting with PM Modi and Law Minister Arjun Meghwal to select the next CEC is a significant development. While Gandhi’s earlier criticism of the government’s handling of the selection process was justified, his willingness to put aside differences and work with the government to select a capable and impartial CEC is a positive step.
The selection of Gyanesh Kumar as the next CEC is also a welcome development, given his experience and expertise. As the country prepares for future elections, it is essential that the Election Commission is headed by a strong and impartial leader who can ensure the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.
