Reward CEC with Bharat Ratna for delivering West Bengal to BJP: J&K CM
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized the BJP and the Election Commission, sarcastically suggesting the Chief Election Commissioner be awarded a Bharat Ratna for allegedly delivering West Bengal to the BJP. He also commented on improving India-China relations, noting that diplomatic dialogue has resumed following the Galwan crisis.
Why it matters
The comments reflect ongoing political tensions regarding the integrity of the Election Commission and shifting geopolitical stances on China.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday (September 29, 2026) took a swipe at the BJP for suggesting a Padma award for CEC Gyanesh Kumar, saying he should be rewarded with a Bharat Ratna for delivering West Bengal to the party.
"Padma Bhushan? Why stop there? Give him the Bharat Ratna! One or two years left for the presidential election? Make him the President! Now that he has done so much for the BJP. Gifted West Bengal to the BJP. Now, talking about Padma Bhushan, I feel it's a huge injustice to him," Mr. Abdullah told reporters on the sidelines of a buyer-seller meet in Srinagar.
The Chief Minister said the Election Commission of India (ECI) should do some soul-searching as the charges against the poll panel were not levelled by any political party.
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