Supreme Court Judge Questions Government Influence in Election Body Appointment Law

Justice Dipankar Datta of the Supreme Court raised concerns about the 2023 law governing appointments to the Election Commission of India. He suggested the law may not be free from government influence, comparing the situation to a batting team choosing its own umpire. The three-member appointment committee under the law comprises the Prime Minister, a minister nominated by the PM, and the Leader of Opposition. Critics argue this structure gives the ruling government a built-in majority in selecting election commissioners. The remarks have reignited debate over the independence and neutrality of India's poll oversight body.