Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar Demits Office After Nearly Three-Year Tenure

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Rajiv Kumar, the outgoing Chief Election Commissioner, has demitted office after a nearly three-year tenure marked by high electoral successes but also repeated allegations of bias by opposition parties. During his time with the Election Commission, Kumar effected reforms across various aspects of its functioning, including structural, technological, capacity development, communication, international cooperation, and administration. He oversaw the conduct of elections in 31 states and union territories, the Presidential and Vice Presidential elections in 2022, Lok Sabha elections in 2024, and Rajya Sabha polls, completing one "full electoral cycle".

However, Kumar often faced criticism from opposition parties and activists on several issues, including the efficacy of Electronic Voting Machines, alleged fudging of voter data, and being "lenient" on the ruling BJP. The Commission responded to these allegations in writing, while Kumar took to poetry to defend himself and the poll authority. On his last day in office, Kumar told the media that he is leaving the EC in very capable hands, with Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar set to succeed him. Kumar also expressed his confidence that the Indian voter will stand behind the Commission with all their might, ensuring the continuation of free and fair elections in the country.

Kumar's tenure was marked by significant events, including the drafting of an affidavit in 2021, stating that the courts may punish him if he was in the wrong but they should absolve the EC of doubts. He also voiced his criticism of exit polls, calling them a "huge distraction" that raises expectations, and emphasized the need for self-introspection by the media. Additionally, Kumar oversaw the delimitation of Parliamentary and Assembly constituencies of Assam, bringing together various stakeholders with conflicting viewpoints and interests to redefine electoral boundaries through consensus, consultation, and active participation. This approach fostered an inclusive, participative, and representative approach towards redefining electoral boundaries, ensuring that the electoral process remains smooth and undisturbed.

As Kumar demits office, he leaves behind a legacy of reforms and a commitment to addressing concerns surrounding promises of unchecked freebies and overpromising manifestos. The Election Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process, with Kumar's successor, Gyanesh Kumar, set to build upon his work. The Indian voter will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the country's democratic landscape, with the EC working tirelessly to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are protected. In the coming days, the EC will face new challenges, including the need to address the issue of exit polls and the potential impact of technology on the electoral process.

In conclusion, Rajiv Kumar's tenure as Chief Election Commissioner has been marked by significant achievements and challenges. As he demits office, he leaves behind a legacy of reforms and a commitment to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. The Indian voter will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the country's democratic landscape, with the EC working tirelessly to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are protected. The following are some key points to note: * Timeline of events: * September 1, 2020: Rajiv Kumar joins the poll panel as an Election Commissioner * May 15, 2022: Kumar assumes charge as the 25th Chief Election Commissioner * 2022: Presidential and Vice Presidential elections * 2024: Lok Sabha elections * February 18, 2025: Kumar demits office as Chief Election Commissioner * Multiple stakeholder views: * Opposition parties: criticized Kumar for alleged bias and leniency towards the ruling BJP * Activists: raised concerns about the efficacy of Electronic Voting Machines and alleged fudging of voter data * Media: criticized for exit polls and potential impact on the electoral process * Policy points: * Ensuring the integrity of the electoral process * Addressing concerns surrounding promises of unchecked freebies and overpromising manifestos * Protecting the rights of the Indian voter * Statistical data: * 31 states and union territories where elections were conducted during Kumar's tenure * 2022: year of Presidential and Vice Presidential elections * 2024: year of Lok Sabha elections