The Daily PulsePolitics
Akhilesh Yadav questions poll panel credibility after report on internal disputes
Reported by Neha Sharma (Staff Writer) · ThePrint - Politics ·
Reported by one source so far
Representative image · Wikimedia CommonsSamajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has raised serious doubts about the fairness of the Election Commission following a media report that revealed two Election Commissioners objected 14 times over a ten-month period to decisions concerning electoral roll procedures and the Special Intensive Revision process. Speaking at a press conference in Lucknow on Wednesday, Yadav alleged that voters supporting his party were deliberately removed from voter lists without any corrective measures being taken, and claimed that massive fraud took place during recent by-elections.
Government Criticism and Ayodhya
Expanding his attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party government in Uttar Pradesh, the former chief minister accused authorities of acting arbitrarily and destroying constitutional norms through aggressive demolition drives. Addressing his party's position on Ayodhya, Yadav stated that the Samajwadi Party never opposed building the Ram Temple, but criticized the state administration for displacing local residents and destroying homes along the Saryu River.
Election Commission and Parliament Response
Defending the poll body, official sources stated that all decisions involving the Special Intensive Revision were actually approved unanimously by both Election Commissioners alongside Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Meanwhile, opposition parties have previously tried to remove the Chief Election Commissioner, with 73 Rajya Sabha MPs submitting a notice in April 2026 alleging proven misbehaviour, though notices in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were ultimately rejected by Speaker Om Birla and Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan.
ExplainerWhy this matters
What Happened
Recent media reports revealed internal disagreements within the Election Commission, showing that two Election Commissioners registered objections 14 times over a ten-month span regarding electoral roll revisions and the Special Intensive Revision process. This disclosure prompted sharp criticism from opposition leaders, particularly Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who accused the poll panel of electoral malpractice.
Why It Matters
This controversy touches upon the core independence, transparency, and internal checks of India's top election watchdog. When disputes among top election officials become public, it raises questions about institutional credibility and fairness, which are vital for maintaining public trust during elections.
What Happens Next
While official sources maintain that all decisions were passed unanimously, opposition parties continue to push for accountability, and further political debates are expected regarding transparency in electoral roll updates and the functioning of constitutional bodies.
