Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a scathing attack on the central government over its decision to amend election rules, making it more difficult to access electronic records such as CCTV footage and webcasting material. The Congress leader termed the move a “frontal attack on the Constitution and Democracy.”
The amendment, made by the Union Law Ministry based on recommendations from the Election Commission (EC), restricts public access to electronic documents related to elections. The EC justified the decision, citing concerns about voter secrecy and potential misuse of footage through artificial intelligence (AI).
“Erosion of Electoral Integrity”
Kharge, 82, criticized the government for what he described as a “systematic conspiracy” to undermine the Election Commission’s integrity. He compared the amendment to earlier controversial moves, including the removal of the Chief Justice of India from the selection panel for appointing Election Commissioners.
“The Modi government’s calibrated erosion of ECI’s integrity is a direct assault on the Constitution. We will take every possible step to safeguard democracy,” Kharge asserted.
Concerns Over Election Transparency
The amendment affects Rule 93 of the Conduct of Election Rules, which previously allowed public inspection of election-related “papers.” With the change, the term “papers” has been limited to documents explicitly specified in the rules, excluding electronic records such as CCTV footage or webcasting materials.
Congress argued that such changes erode transparency and allow the government to manipulate the electoral process. “Every time the Congress raised concerns over poll irregularities, the ECI responded dismissively,” Kharge said, accusing the EC of lacking independence.
Government’s Justification
The Election Commission and government officials defended the amendment, emphasizing the need to prevent the misuse of sensitive materials. An EC official noted that candidates can still access these electronic records, and the public can seek them through court orders.
The amendment follows a Punjab and Haryana High Court ruling that required the EC to share all documents, including electronic footage, from Haryana assembly elections. Officials said the changes were necessary to resolve ambiguities in the rules.
