India Bloc Demands CEC Resignation, S.Y. Quraishi Slams SIR Row, O.P. Rawat Backs EC

In an interview, former Chief Election Commissioner S. Y. Quraishi addressed the reported internal rift within the Election Commission of India involving CEC Gyanesh Kumar and fellow election commissioners. Quraishi stated that unilateral decision-making by a single individual within the multi-member body renders decisions invalid, remarking, "Any, all decisions taken by a single man, whosoever he may be, he may be the chairman of the Election Commission, but they're all illegal." He discussed opposition demands to nullify recent elections, noting that extensive voter deletions have compromised the electoral process. Quraishi observed that dissenting election commissioners face distinct operational pressures, citing historical instances where dissenting members were removed. Addressing public agitation and street ultimatums, he described the diminishing public trust in the commission as unprecedented. He also called for a technical and legal audit of all decisions taken by the Election Commission over the past two years.

In an interview with India Today, former Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat discussed the controversies surrounding voter deletions, internal disagreements, and administrative functioning within the Election Commission of India. Addressing concerns over differences among commissioners, Rawat remarked, "Most of the issues are, a little frivolous or made up and, like this, centralization." He emphasized that internal dissent is manageable, noting that fellow commissioners hold majority decision-making powers if consensus is not reached. Rawat clarified that an election's sanctity cannot be challenged outside of an election petition under the law or Constitution. Regarding unaddressed emails from local officials, he stated that administrative supervision rests at the Deputy Election Commissioner and Director level rather than the commission itself, dismissing allegations of unilateral central control.

Indian shooters Suruchi Singh and Kamaljeet spoke exclusively after winning India's first shooting gold medal at the Asian Games in the 10-meter mixed air pistol event. Discussing their mindset during the final, Suruchi shared, "Bas mujhe apne game pe focus karna hai," while Kamaljeet explained his drive to deliver his personal best. Kamaljeet also reflected on his sporting transition, revealing that he pursued athletics during childhood but turned to shooting following an injury, which later enabled him to enter the Indian Army through the sports quota.

The Congress held protests across India seeking Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation and arrest amid reports of dissent within the Election Commission over the Special Intensive Revision. The show also examines the default bail granted to an American and six Ukrainians accused in a drone-training case, and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s remarks at the UN.