New Delhi: India’s Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Rajiv Kumar, has unfollowed journalists and political figures, including Mohammed Zubair and Rahul Gandhi, on Twitter following a public uproar. The CEC’s decision came after criticism from various quarters, questioning the impartiality of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Concerns have also been raised about the integrity of the 2024 elections, with some speculating whether Rahul Gandhi hacked the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and if Zubair was involved. Allegations of Congress manipulating the election have added to the controversy, although no evidence has been provided to support these claims.
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Many argued that the CEC should maintain neutrality and not follow individuals perceived as partisan or controversial. The ECI has traditionally upheld a stance of non-partisanship, and Kumar’s actions raised concerns about potential bias.
In response to the criticism, Kumar unfollowed several accounts to restore the perception of impartiality. The ECI clarified that the CEC’s social media activity does not reflect the official stance of the institution. They emphasized their commitment to conducting free and fair elections, regardless of individual opinions. The ECI’s swift response aims to reassure the public of its dedication to neutrality and the integrity of the electoral process.
Zubair, co-founder of the fact-checking website Alt News, and Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, are known for their critical views on the current government. Zubair has faced accusations of hate-mongering, which he denies, and has been a controversial figure in Indian media.
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Mohammed Zubair’s tussle with the government is not new, he has been openly critical of the government’s policies. The Delhi police had booked the journalist under sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, language, etc.) and 295A (deliberate and malicious act intended to outrage religious feelings) of the Indian Penal Code.
The earlier arrest of Mohammed Zubair had initiated a political controversy. While some BJP leaders hailed the action against Zubair, the Opposition slammed the central government, calling this action a vendetta against the journalist.