NCP Chief Sharad Pawar said, “The Supreme Court has clearly indicated that it is the misuse of the government’s authority”
Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar took a swipe at the Bharatiya Janata Party for misusing its authority in the appointment of Arun Goel as the new Election Commissioner, on Thursday. The Supreme Court said that the file pertaining to the appointment of Arun Goel as Election Commissioner was cleared very fast.
“The Supreme Court has clearly indicated that it is the misuse of the government’s authority (in the appointment of Arun Goel as new election commissioner). The person was supposed to retire on a particular day and on the same day giving him extension or clearing his appointment has never happened in the past. It is against the normal system of appointment on a position”, Pawar said.
Also Read: “Election Commissioner Arun Goel’s File Cleared At Lightning Speed,” Says SC
On Thursday the Supreme Court bench headed by Justice KM Joseph observed that Vacancy of Election Commissioner arose on May 15 and Arun Goel’s file was cleared at lightning speed.
The court pointed out: “Minister of Law picks the names from the list of four names shortlisted… The file was put up on November 18; moves the same day. Even PM recommends the name on the same day. We don’t want any confrontation, but was this done in any haste? What’s the tearing hurry?”
When hearing petitions calling for an independent process to choose election commissioners, the Supreme Court’s Constitution bench requested the documents relating to Arun Goel’s recent appointment as the Election Commissioner on Wednesday.
The SC has stated that it was interested in learning whether the appointment involved any “hanky-panky.” The Supreme Court opined that the ruling government “likes to perpetuate itself in power” and can appoint someone under the current system.
Over this, the Centre argued and said that a 1991 Act ensured the Election Commission remains independent in terms of salary and tenure to its members. It further added that there is no “trigger point” which warrants interference from the court.
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