Congress has launched a sharp attack on Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of “illegally and unilaterally” changing Form 6 during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The party has also alleged that the CEC acted under pressure from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
What Is the Form 6 Row?
Form 6 is used for the enrolment of new voters in the electoral roll. Congress claims that the Election Commission changed the form during the SIR without following the required legal process, making it more difficult for eligible citizens—especially young and first-time voters—to register.
The party says the change was initially presented as having the Supreme Court’s approval. However, Congress pointed to observations by Chief Justice Surya Kant suggesting that the court had not approved the altered form, which it says exposes the Election Commission’s claim.
Congress’s Main Allegations
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said CEC Gyanesh Kumar had “betrayed the Constitution in letter and spirit.” He alleged that the CEC knowingly violated the law and constitutional practices by changing Form 6 on his own.
The party’s main arguments are:
- The CEC allegedly changed Form 6 without legal authority.
- Congress claims the power to amend the form lies with the Union government under the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
- The party says any such change required an amendment to the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, and proper intimation to Parliament.
- Congress also cited reports that an Election Commissioner had objected to the insertion of a new question in Form 6 without the required legal amendment.
Rahul Gandhi’s Attack
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said it was now “established beyond doubt” that Gyanesh Kumar had changed Form 6 illegally and unilaterally. He alleged that the move was intended to benefit the BJP.
Congress has also linked the Form 6 issue to its larger criticism of the SIR process. The party has earlier alleged arbitrary deletion of voters’ names and demanded the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner.
Supreme Court Notice Adds Pressure
The fresh political attack came after the Supreme Court issued notices to the Election Commission and the Centre in a case concerning how the poll body takes decisions. Congress leaders said the court’s action strengthens the demand for transparency and accountability in the functioning of the Election Commission.
The Supreme Court has reportedly sought records related to who approved or directed the change in Form 6, bringing the issue back into sharp focus.
What Happens Next?
The allegations remain political and legal claims made by Congress. The Election Commission has not accepted the party’s characterization, and no court has so far held the CEC guilty of illegality.
However, the controversy is likely to intensify as the Supreme Court examines the matter and opposition parties continue to demand answers over the SIR and voter enrolment process.
