New Delhi: In a significant political development, 73 Opposition Members of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha have submitted a fresh motion seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging “proven misbehaviour” under constitutional provisions.
The notice, submitted to the Rajya Sabha Secretary General, seeks an address to the President of India for the CEC’s removal under Article 324(5) read with Article 124(4) of the Constitution, along with provisions of the 2023 law governing Election Commissioners and the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the motion includes nine charges linked to the functioning of the Chief Election Commissioner since March 15, 2026, alleging misconduct that, according to the Opposition, warrants constitutional scrutiny.
Ramesh claimed the charges outlined in the motion raise serious concerns over the functioning of the Election Commission and asserted that the continuation of the CEC in office raises questions about institutional independence.
This is the second such move by Opposition parties after an earlier notice backed by 63 Rajya Sabha MPs and 130 Lok Sabha members had also sought action against Gyanesh Kumar, citing multiple charges.
Under the Constitution, the Chief Election Commissioner can be removed in the same manner as a Supreme Court judge, making the process legally stringent and politically significant.
The Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, requires a minimum of 50 signatures in the Rajya Sabha and 100 in the Lok Sabha for such notices to be considered. It also provides for the constitution of an inquiry mechanism if motions in both Houses are admitted.
The latest development is likely to intensify political debate over the functioning and autonomy of constitutional institutions.
