Gyanesh Kumar Appointed as New Chief Election Commissioner of India
Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed as India's 26th Chief Election Commissioner, effective February 17, 2025. His tenure will include overseeing major elections, including the 2029 Lok Sabha polls
kowshik Reddy
In a significant development, Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed as India's 26th Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), effective February 17, 2025. He succeeds Rajiv Kumar, whose tenure concluded recently. Gyanesh Kumar's term is slated to run until January 26, 2029, during which he will oversee major electoral events, including the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.
This appointment is particularly noteworthy as Gyanesh Kumar becomes the first CEC selected under the newly established law governing the Election Commission's selection process. The selection was conducted by a panel comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. However, the process has not been without controversy; the Congress party has urged the government to defer the selection until the Supreme Court hears a relevant petition.
Gyanesh Kumar, a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Prior to this, he served as an Election Commissioner, having assumed that position on March 14, 2024. His extensive career in public service is expected to contribute significantly to the integrity and efficiency of India's electoral processes.
The appointment has also prompted legal scrutiny, with the Supreme Court set to hear a plea challenging the selection process. Opposition leaders have expressed dissent, and Rahul Gandhi has described the move as 'disrespectful.'
As Gyanesh Kumar steps into his role as the Chief Election Commissioner, the nation anticipates his leadership in upholding the democratic values and ensuring the smooth conduct of elections in the coming years.
