The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) is alarmed by the sudden development within the Election Commission of India.
One of the Election Commissioners, who had three years remaining before retirement, has resigned, and the resignation has been formally accepted. With one of the Commissioner positions already vacant, this creates a situation where the Commission is presently represented by a single member, the Chief Election Commissioner.
On the eve of the general elections to the 18th Lok Sabha, this creates an atmosphere of uncertainty. With the new law on appointment of ECs, the composition of the Election Commission is under the complete control of the government. This situation raises concerns that need to be addressed to ensure the credibility of this Constitutional entity and its capacity to conduct free and fair polls.
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) demands that the Central government provide a clear statement on the circumstances in which this situation has emerged.