ECI Must Remain Independent, Free from Political Influence: Hakeem Yaseen

Convener News Desk 

Srinagar, October 4: Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Cabinet Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Sunday said that India is one of the largest democracies in the world and has a long-standing democratic tradition based on constitutional institutions and democratic values.

Expressing concern over recent developments concerning the Election Commission of India (ECI), Yaseen said that questions being raised by political parties and various sections of society regarding the functioning of the poll body cannot be ignored.

Yaseen said the Election Commission has traditionally been viewed as an independent constitutional institution entrusted with conducting free and fair elections. He said that any controversy surrounding its decisions or functioning has the potential to affect public confidence in the electoral process.

“Recent developments and controversial decisions have raised questions about the functioning of the Election Commission. These concerns need to be addressed in the larger interest of democracy and the confidence of the people,” Yaseen said.

He maintained that the credibility of democratic institutions depends upon their independence, transparency and impartial functioning.

Yaseen said that in view of the controversies surrounding the functioning of the ECI, the Chairman/Chief Election Commissioner should consider resigning from the responsibility, saying that such a step would help restore public confidence in the institution.

He said the Election Commission should not be perceived as working in favour of, or under the influence of, any particular political party.

“The Election Commission must operate independently. No individual, political party or government should have undue influence over its functioning. Its decisions must inspire confidence among all sections of society,” he said.

Yaseen also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take steps to strengthen the credibility and independence of democratic institutions.

He said the Prime Minister, as the head of the Union Government, has an important role in ensuring that democratic institutions retain the confidence of the people.

“India’s democratic strength lies in the independence of its institutions and respect for the aspirations of its people. Strengthening the credibility of the electoral system will further enhance the image of the world’s largest democracy,” Yaseen said.

He emphasised that electoral institutions must remain above political considerations and work strictly in accordance with constitutional principles, ensuring that the people’s mandate is protected and their democratic aspirations respected.