TMC seeks removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, gathers 193 MP signatures

The Trinamool Congress has intensified the political battle ahead of the upcoming assembly elections by formally moving a proposal to remove Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, claiming support from 193 Members of Parliament. The party has submitted notices in both Houses of Parliament and has also written to the President alleging misconduct and bias, marking a rare and significant step against a top constitutional authority.

The move follows sustained criticism by the party leadership over the functioning of the Election Commission, particularly in relation to the SIR issue. The Trinamool Congress has repeatedly questioned the neutrality of the Chief Election Commissioner, with senior leaders raising concerns even before the election schedule was announced. The current proposal formalises those allegations into a parliamentary process.

Despite the aggressive political push, questions remain over the feasibility of the move. As per constitutional provisions, the removal of a Chief Election Commissioner requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament, similar to the impeachment of a judge. While the party claims to have secured 193 signatures, reaching the required threshold is expected to be a major challenge in the current political landscape.

The proposal has triggered sharp political reactions, with opposition voices calling it a necessary step, while the ruling side dismissed it as impractical. Critics argue that the numbers are insufficient and the motion is unlikely to succeed if brought to vote, suggesting that the move is more political messaging than a viable legislative action.

Nevertheless, the development highlights the rising political tensions ahead of elections, with the Trinamool Congress using the issue to sharpen its attack on the Centre and mobilise its position across poll-bound states.