Assam: Gaurav Gogoi demands inquiry into Election Commission functioning
Guwahati: Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi on Thursday criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging that its failure to act on reports of electoral malpractice amounted to complicity.
Gogoi called for a nationwide movement seeking an inquiry into the Commission’s functioning and comprehensive institutional reforms.
“The inaction of the Election Commission on vote chori is akin to an admission of guilt and is a feeble attempt to cover up this injustice against the people of India. There must be a national movement to demand an inquiry into the functioning of the Election Commission and reform of this important institution,” Gogoi wrote on X.
The Congress MP’s remarks come amid growing political tensions over allegations of irregularities during recent elections.
Several opposition leaders have accused the ECI of failing to maintain transparency and neutrality, while the ruling party has dismissed these claims as politically motivated.
Gogoi emphasized that restoring public trust in democratic institutions is essential for safeguarding India’s electoral integrity.
He urged civil society groups, political parties, and citizens to join hands in demanding greater accountability from the Commission.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission has not issued an official response to Gogoi’s statement.
Political observers note that Congress has intensified its criticism of constitutional bodies in recent months, alleging that several institutions have failed to act impartially.
The demand for reforming the Election Commission, they say, could become a key campaign plank for the opposition ahead of upcoming state and national elections.
Analysts also note that Gogoi’s statement reflects a broader sentiment among opposition parties regarding the need to revisit appointment procedures, oversight mechanisms, and the operational independence of the ECI.
As debates over electoral fairness grow louder, the Commission is expected to face increased scrutiny over its role in ensuring free and fair polls.
Assam will hold assembly elections in 2026.

