Keralam Assembly passes resolution seeking removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, steps to restore credibility of ECI
The Keralam Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing concerns over the impartiality of the Election Commission of India. The resolution also calls for structural reforms to the selection process for the CEC.
Why it matters
This represents a significant political challenge to the independence of India's electoral body, reflecting deep-seated tensions regarding democratic integrity and institutional transparency.
The Keralam Legislative Assembly on Monday (October 12, 2026) passed a resolution seeking the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar and steps to improve transparency in the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The ruling Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Opposition CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) supported the resolution moved by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) objected to the contents of the resolution and proposed amendments, but they were rejected.
The House expressed deep concern over the accusations levelled against the ECI, while observing that free, transparent and impartial elections and universal adult franchise constitute the basis of Indian democracy. “Given the circumstances where serious doubts have been raised about the impartiality of the ECI, it is imperative that steps be taken to remove the CEC to restore the credibility of the institution,” the resolution said.
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