Congress Moves Supreme Court Against Controversial Amendment to Election Conduct Rules
(Judicial Quest News Network)
In a substantial move, the Congress party has approached the Supreme Court challenging recent amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, which limits public access to crucial election materials, including CCTV footage, unless explicitly listed by the Election Commission of India (ECI). This legal challenge comes after the amendment was introduced following recommendations from the ECI, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media on Tuesday, condemning the government’s decision to unilaterally amend the election rules without public consultation. “This cannot be allowed. The Election Commission, a constitutional body entrusted with ensuring free and fair elections, cannot make such significant changes without consulting the public or stakeholders,” Ramesh asserted.
The amendment, announced on Saturday, has been widely criticized for limiting access to vital election materials, which are essential for ensuring a transparent electoral process. Ramesh argued that the amendment undermines the transparency of elections and erodes the integrity of the electoral system, emphasizing that the move is a direct attack on the accountability that should be inherent in democratic elections. “The integrity of the electoral process is fast eroding. Hopefully, the Supreme Court will step in to restore it,” he added.
The amendment, which restricts access to CCTV footage and other election-related materials, was reportedly introduced in response to a Punjab and Haryana High Court order, which had directed the Election Commission to provide CCTV footage from election booths.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also strongly criticized the amendment, calling it an undemocratic assault on the principles of free and fair elections. Stalin contended that the move undermines one of the Constitution’s fundamental features—transparency. He urged political parties aligned with the central government to unite and oppose what he described as a direct attack on democratic values.
As the matter heads to the Supreme Court, all eyes are on the judiciary to determine whether this controversial amendment will stand or if it will be overturned in the name of safeguarding electoral integrity.
