NEW DELHI: Even as the Bihar Assembly election campaign intensifies, the focus has shifted from political rallies to the credibility of the Election Commission of India (ECI). Amid mounting allegations of bias and inefficiency, several observers and experts have expressed grave concerns over the poll body’s ability to conduct a genuinely free and fair election.
A former Election Commissioner, speaking on condition of anonymity, remarked that the “era of free and honest elections seems to have faded.” He alleged that the current functioning of the ECI shows a clear tilt toward the ruling dispensation, eroding public trust in one of the most critical democratic institutions of the country.
Experts and constitutional observers have echoed similar sentiments, pointing to a pattern of inaction and controversial decisions by the poll body in recent months. From the alleged large-scale deletion of voters’ names to the handling of political speeches that violated the Model Code of Conduct, the ECI has come under scrutiny for appearing reluctant to confront those in power.
Adding to the concern is the Supreme Court’s perceived leniency toward the Election Commission. “The apex court, instead of ensuring accountability, has practically given an escape route to the ECI,” said a former bureaucrat who has followed the issue closely.
From June till date, several petitions were filed questioning the ECI’s conduct and the deletion of voter names, but in most cases, the Court deferred to the Commission’s own assurances rather than issuing strict directions.
Analysts argue that this judicial restraint has weakened the system of checks and balances. “By leaving matters entirely to the Commission, the Court has allowed a free run to an institution already under a cloud,” a senior political analyst noted.
The ECI, on its part, maintains that all electoral processes are being conducted with the utmost transparency and that mechanisms are in place to address any grievances. However, opposition parties and independent watchdogs continue to raise doubts, particularly about the integrity of voter lists and the uneven application of the election rules.
As Bihar heads toward the 2-day polling on November 6 and 11, the debate over the Election Commission’s neutrality has intensified. What was once a body synonymous with fairness and fearlessness now faces a credibility crisis — one that could shape not only the outcome of this election but also the future of India’s democratic integrity.
[Writer is Senior Journalist and Political Commentator]
All pictures credit social media
