Kharge Issues Triple Ultimatum: CEC Resignation, Halt SIR, Reinstate Paper Ballots

New Delhi. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has intensified his criticism of the Election Commission, laying out three firm conditions that the party says must be satisfied before it can endorse the forthcoming electoral schedule.

Congress’ Three‑Point Demand

Kharge declared that the party seeks the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, the suspension of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, and the re‑introduction of traditional paper ballots in place of electronic voting machines. In a social‑media statement on Monday, he noted that Congress cadres and allies within the INDIA coalition are organising protests nationwide to press these points.

The leader also pledged solidarity with civil‑society groups and youth movements campaigning for greater transparency in the voting process.

SIR Roll Revision Faces Scrutiny

This pronouncement arrives amid a widening controversy surrounding the Election Commission’s conduct of the SIR exercise. The Congress has repeatedly challenged the legality of the roll‑revision, arguing that it could reshape the electorate to the party’s detriment.

Reports indicate that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi have raised objections on several occasions, claiming that certain SIR orders were issued without their knowledge or recommendation. The Commission, however, maintains that internal dissent is normal in any large institution and that its directives are backed by law and established statutory procedures.

Wider Opposition Narrative

Kharge linked the demand for the CEC’s resignation with the party’s broader opposition to the SIR and its call for a return to paper‑ballot voting. He also accused the ruling BJP of targeting female journalists in Delhi, describing the incident as condemnable and suggesting the government is attempting to shift focus from the larger electoral controversy.

Congress reiterated its resolve to stand with organisations highlighting concerns over electoral transparency, while the Election Commission defended the legality of its actions. As debates over roll revision and voting technology persist, the issue is poised to remain a central theme in the run‑up to the next elections.