Who is Vivek Joshi, India’s new election commissioner?

Vivek Joshi, a senior IAS officer from the Haryana cadre, has been appointed as the new Election Commissioner of India. The appointment, made on Monday, is in line with the powers granted under the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.

According to an official release, the President’s office confirmed the decision: “In exercise of powers conferred by section 4 of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 (Act No. 49 of 2023), the President is pleased to appoint Dr Vivek Joshi, IAS (HY:1989) as Election Commissioner in the Election Commission of India, with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office.”

Joshi’s appointment comes after the selection panel, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, met in the evening to finalise the decision. The committee, which also included Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi, recommended Joshi for the position to President Droupadi Murmu. This decision has marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Election Commission of India (ECI).

A Controversial Appointment Process

While Joshi’s appointment was quickly confirmed, the process surrounding the selection has raised concerns, especially within the Congress party. The opposition has urged the government to delay the appointment until the Supreme Court addresses a petition challenging the revised process for the appointment of Election Commissioners.

Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi has been vocal in his criticism of the selection process, particularly the exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the selection panel. “The government seeks to control the Election Commission rather than maintain its credibility,” Singhvi remarked, adding to the ongoing debate on the independence of the body.

Also Read: Gyanesh Kumar appointed as India's Chief Election Commissioner amid Cong's postponement appeal

Gyanesh Kumar to Take Over as Chief Election Commissioner

In a separate but related development, Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed as the next Chief Election Commissioner of India. Kumar will replace Rajiv Kumar, who is retiring after reaching the age of 65. Rajiv Kumar’s term as CEC was marked by his leadership during several crucial elections, including the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and various state assembly polls.

His tenure focused on efforts to increase electoral transparency and boost voter participation. As Gyanesh Kumar prepares to assume his new role, he will inherit the responsibility of guiding the Election Commission through future elections, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process remains intact.

Also Read: Who is Gyanesh Kumar, India’s new Chief Election Commissioner?

These appointments come at a time when the Election Commission of India is under intense scrutiny. The role of the Election Commissioners, especially the CEC, is crucial in maintaining free and fair elections in one of the world’s largest democracies. However, the selection process and the ongoing debate over the independence of the commission could have far-reaching implications on how future elections are conducted in India.

For now, Vivek Joshi’s appointment as Election Commissioner and Gyanesh Kumar’s upcoming leadership will shape the future of the Election Commission as they navigate the complex landscape of India’s electoral system.