The Congress party has approached the Supreme Court to challenge recent amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, which have restricted public access to specific electronic records, including CCTV footage, webcasting recordings, and video documentation of candidates.
The move, which the government claims aims to prevent misuse of such materials, has sparked significant controversy and criticism.
The amendments, introduced on December 20 by the Union Law Ministry following recommendations from the Election Commission, have limited the type of documents available for public inspection.
The revised rules cite concerns over the potential misuse of electronic records and the compromise of voter secrecy.
Election officials clarified that while these materials will remain accessible to candidates, public access would now require court intervention. However, critics argue that this step undermines transparency in the electoral process.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed the party's strong opposition to the changes, emphasising the importance of transparency and accountability in democratic processes.
He accused the Election Commission of acting unilaterally without public consultation and condemned what he described as a "brazen" alteration to a critical law.
In a tweet, Ramesh highlighted the growing erosion of the electoral process’s integrity and expressed hope that the Supreme Court would rectify the situation.
The Congress’s petition contends that the new rules undermine public trust in the electoral system by restricting access to essential information that fosters transparency.
Ramesh further criticised the Election Commission for allegedly fearing scrutiny and urged legal challenges against the amendments.
The government's decision has reignited debates about the balance between preventing potential misuse of electoral materials and ensuring transparency.
According to officials, the changes aim to safeguard voter secrecy and prevent electronic records from being exploited. Yet, detractors argue that the move represents a step away from public accountability and could erode faith in the election process.
The issue has drawn attention to the broader role of the Election Commission as a constitutional body entrusted with safeguarding free and fair elections.
Critics, including the Congress, have questioned whether the Commission's unilateral actions in amending critical laws align with its mandate to ensure democratic integrity.
The controversy surrounding the amendments reflects growing concerns about the state of democracy and electoral transparency in India.
As the Supreme Court takes up the matter, all eyes will be on the judiciary to determine whether the changes align with constitutional principles and the broader public interest.
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