Editorial With Sujit Nair | Why Did Election Commissioner Arun Goel Quit Ahead Of Lok Sabha Polls?

HW News Editorial with Sujit Nair

In this episode of 'Editorial,' Mr. Sujit Nair delves into the resignation of Election Commissioner Arun Goel just ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Following the Union law ministry's announcement of Goel's resignation, Election Commission officials found themselves puzzled, especially considering the remaining three years of Goel's tenure and the expected elevation to the position of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) in 2025. According to information obtained from five officials interviewed by HT, it became apparent that Goel and CEC Rajiv Kumar had experienced differences, ranging from routine matters to more complex issues. However, these disagreements failed to provide a clear explanation for Goel's sudden decision to resign. Notably, a significant point of contention between them was the Election Commission's order on February 17, 2023, regarding the allocation of the Shiv Sena's party name and poll symbol to the Eknath Shinde faction based on legislative majority, as disclosed by four officials to HT.