EC Arun Goel's resignation – a personal choice or political strategy?

The sudden resignation of Election Commissioner Arun Goel, just days before the expected announcement of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections schedule, has sparked debates and raised questions about the timing and underlying reasons for his departure. President Droupadi Murmu swiftly accepted the resignation, citing "personal reasons" as the cause, a claim that has been met with skepticism.

Despite attempts to dismiss health concerns, insiders reveal that Mr. Goel's decision may be rooted in differences on file matters with Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. The Election Commission, which already had a vacant position, is now left with only Mr. Kumar on the poll panel.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took to social media to express his concerns, questioning whether the Election Commission should now be renamed "Election OMISSION" due to the critical timing of Mr. Goel's departure. Kharge emphasized the potential impact on democracy, stating, "If we do not stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our democracy shall be usurped by dictatorship!"

Kharge further raised concerns about the government's influence on constitutional bodies, referring to Ashok Lavasa's dissent during the 2019 elections and the subsequent inquiries. The delay in appointing a new Election Commissioner also drew attention, with Kharge demanding explanations from the Modi government.

Trinamool Congress leader Saket Gokhale echoed these worries, emphasizing the need for two appointments to the poll panel just ahead of the crucial general elections. As speculations persist, the political landscape remains tense, with stakeholders closely monitoring the developments within the Election Commission.