Election Commission Dismisses Rift Claims, Extends SIR Deadlines in Delhi and Maharashtra

Telugu Desam Party Parliamentary Party leader Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu criticised the Congress party for constantly questioning election outcomes and placing blame on institutions. Addressing allegations made against the Election Commission of India, he questioned, "If it is so, how, how did you win the election Kerala?" He maintained that the opposition party has a habit of passing on blame whenever it faces an electoral defeat. Reaffirming confidence in institutional integrity, he expressed certainty that the Election Commission of India will address all queries raised by opposition parties in a clear manner to ensure no doubts persist among voters.

The Election Commission of India has refuted allegations of internal discord, presenting a united front following a key meeting at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alongside Election Commissioners Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr Vivek Joshi, clarified that major decisions, including the Special Intensive Revision across states and union territories, were taken unanimously. The commission noted that orders concerning SIR in Bihar, West Bengal, and other regions received unanimous approval and referenced Supreme Court backing. Officials also addressed media reports alleging centralization of power and internal objections, confirming extensions for SIR processes to assist voters.

The Bharatiya Janata Party addressed claims made against the Election Commission, stating that allegations peddled by the opposition have been proven untrue. Referring to an Indian Express report and a photograph showing all three election commissioners seated together issuing a press release, the party highlighted that the truth is now evident and the narrative against the poll body stands discredited.

The Election Commission of India held a crucial internal meeting at Nirvachan Bhavan featuring Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar alongside Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi amid allegations of centralisation of powers and opposition demands for the Chief Election Commissioner's removal. Following reports and political criticism, the poll body issued clarifications addressing letters sent to the Cabinet Secretary, explaining that the communication concerned an officer on deputation rather than policy matters or IT division oversight. The Commission confirmed that work redistribution orders were not implemented following commissioners' directions, ensuring uninterrupted IT oversight. Clarifications were also issued regarding voter enrollment under the Special Summary Revision process, stating that SIR schedules across states and union territories received unanimous approval and were upheld by the Supreme Court of India. The Commission detailed enrollment initiatives in Goa and extended claims and objections filing deadlines in Delhi, projecting a united administrative stance.