LI Network
Published on: March 10, 2024 at 10:09 IST
Congress General Secretary, KC Venugopal, has voiced deep concern over the resignation of Election Commissioner Arun Goel, stating that it raises alarming questions about the functioning of the world’s largest democracy, especially with the Lok Sabha elections looming on the horizon.
In a statement shared on social media platform ‘X’, Venugopal expressed apprehension over the lack of transparency surrounding Goel’s resignation and criticized what he perceived as government interference in constitutional institutions like the Election Commission of India (ECI). He highlighted the importance of maintaining the independence and impartiality of the ECI, particularly during crucial electoral periods.
Venugopal took a swipe at the BJP-led government, referencing the dissent of former Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa during the 2019 elections, where Lavasa disagreed with exonerating the Prime Minister from alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct. Venugopal alleged that Lavasa faced repercussions for his dissent, suggesting a pattern of undermining democratic norms by the ruling regime.
“This must be explained, and the ECI must be completely non-partisan at all times,” Venugopal emphasized, urging clarity on the circumstances leading to Goel’s resignation and stressing the importance of upholding democratic principles.
Earlier today, President [President’s Name] accepted Arun Goel’s resignation. Goel, who assumed office as Election Commissioner on November 21, 2022, boasts an illustrious career, having served in various key positions such as Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Vice-Chairman of the Delhi Development Authority, Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Joint Secretary at the Department of Revenue in the Ministry of Finance.
The timing of Goel’s resignation, just ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls scheduled for April-May this year, has sparked concerns and raised questions about the potential impact on the electoral process. As the nation gears up for one of its most significant democratic exercises, the resignation of a key official adds a layer of uncertainty to the electoral landscape.