Sat Feb 22 20:24:00 UTC 2025: ## Affable Bureaucrat Appointed as India’s 26th Chief Election Commissioner

**NEW DELHI, February 23, 2025** – Gyanesh Kumar, a seasoned bureaucrat known for his meticulous work ethic and affable demeanor, has assumed the role of India’s 26th Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). His appointment, effective earlier this week, marks a significant moment as he is the first CEC appointed under the new ‘Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.’

Kumar’s career boasts a diverse range of high-profile positions, including heading the Jammu and Kashmir desk in the Union Home Ministry where he played a crucial role in implementing policies following the abrogation of Article 370. He also oversaw the establishment of the ‘Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust’. His extensive experience in the government, coupled with his nearly four-year tenure as CEC, is expected to be instrumental in implementing the ambitious “One Nation One Election” reform.

This reform, aimed at holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, is currently under parliamentary review. Two key bills, introduced in December 2024, seek to make this possible by 2034, provided the five-year legislative cycle remains uninterrupted. The Election Commission has previously highlighted the significant logistical challenges, including the production and management of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs).

Kumar’s appointment has, however, sparked some controversy. Opposition parties have raised concerns about the new appointment law, alleging it gives undue influence to the ruling party in the selection process. Despite this, Kumar’s reputation for diligence and his experience navigating complex political landscapes position him to play a critical role in shaping the future of Indian elections. His background includes a B.Tech in Civil Engineering from IIT Kanpur and further studies in Business Finance and Environmental Economics from prestigious institutions. Before his current appointment he served in various capacities in the Kerala state government and at the centre.

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