AAP's Saurabh Bhardwaj slams Election Commission: Behaving like BJP cell head

India Today

2 days ago

AAP leader and Delhi state president Saurabh Bhardwaj has launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission of India, accusing it of acting like an extension of the ruling BJP. His remarks came in response to the ongoing controversy over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list in Bihar and the statements made by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).advertisementBhardwaj alleged that the current CEC is functioning more like a spokesperson for the BJP rather than a neutral constitutional authority."The Chief Election Commissioner is issuing statements as if he were the head of a BJP cell. It is clear that the Modi government has appointed its 'yes man' as the CEC, someone who beats the drum for them everywhere," he said.
Criticising the process of the CEC's appointment, Bhardwaj said, 'The way the government appoints bureaucrats after retirement makes it obvious, it's a reward system. Once retired, these officers get a lottery in the form of government perks, cars, bungalows, and influence. In return, they echo the government's line.'In a sharp jibe, Bhardwaj advised the CEC to seek inspiration from former Chief Election Commissioner TN Seshan, who is widely remembered for his integrity and fearless conduct."The CEC should hang a picture of TN Seshan in his office and look at it every morning and evening. Maybe that will purify his thoughts and remind him of what the post truly demands," he said.The remarks add to the growing political heat over the voter list revision exercise in Bihar, which the opposition has alleged is being manipulated to favour the ruling BJP. The Election Commission, meanwhile, has denied any wrongdoing.- Ends