EC Functioning Row: 'Only That Will Restore Credibility', Says O.P. Rawat
A panel discussion anchored by Preeti examines the scrutiny surrounding the Election Commission of India after its affidavit in the Supreme Court concerning petitions challenging its functioning. Former Chief Election Commissioner O.P. Rawat pointed out that while unanimous decisions signed by all three commissioners hold legal validity, critical doubts raised regarding internal objections remain unanswered. Rawat stressed that to restore institutional trust, the Chief Election Commissioner should immediately address queries publicly, stating, 'Actually, he must immediately convene a press conference, put everything on every point, every doubt raised throughout the SIR process, every detail before the public, through the media. I think only that will restore the credibility.' Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Priyanka Tibrewal defended the panel by arguing that sub-judice questions will be settled legally before the Supreme Court. Congress spokesperson Suleman Mohammad Khan and Samajwadi Party spokesperson Ghanshyam Tiwari attacked the poll panel's leadership, as trader representatives voiced concern over festive season disruption caused by planned political demonstrations.