Appointment of the New Chief Election Commissioner

The appointment of Gyanesh Kumar as the new Chief Election Commissioner marks a significant change in the selection process, which is now dictated by a newly established law requiring a selection committee. Previously, the Chief Election Commissioner was appointed based on seniority among the election commissioners. The selection committee, comprised of the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and a Union Minister, met to finalize the appointment, with Gandhi expressing dissent that was ultimately overruled. Gyanesh Kumar, known for his connections within the current administration, now heads a three-member election commission alongside two other appointed members.