Sat Jan 25 11:24:02 UTC 2025: ## Congress Accuses Modi-Shah Duo of Compromising Election Commission’s Independence

**New Delhi, January 25, 2025** – The Indian National Congress launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI) on National Voters’ Day, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah of severely compromising the ECI’s professionalism and independence over the past decade.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and general secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed grave concern over the alleged erosion of the ECI’s institutional integrity. They argued that the ECI’s current functioning mocks the Constitution and insults voters. While acknowledging the historical significance of National Voters’ Day, commemorating the ECI’s establishment in 1950, the Congress leaders highlighted what they see as a decline in impartiality and independence.

Ramesh specifically cited recent assembly elections in Haryana and Maharashtra, alleging the ECI’s stance on concerns raised regarding these elections was “shockingly partisan,” and that some of its decisions are currently being challenged in the Supreme Court. He further contrasted the ECI’s current state with the legacies of previous Chief Election Commissioners, such as Sukumar Sen and T.N. Seshan, praising their contributions to establishing a robust electoral democracy.

Kharge echoed these sentiments, stating that the erosion of the ECI’s integrity is a matter of grave national concern and threatens India’s democratic principles. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding institutional independence to preserve democracy.

The Congress leaders’ statements come as the ECI celebrates National Voters’ Day, a day intended to commemorate the body’s founding and promote voter participation. The party’s criticism, however, overshadowed the celebratory tone, framing the day as a stark reminder of what it sees as a weakening of India’s electoral system.

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