ElectionCommission – SY Quraishi Recalls Independent Functioning of Poll Body During His Tenure
ElectionCommission –Former Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi has said that during his tenure, the Election Commission functioned without interference from the government, emphasizing that the institution’s credibility was so strong that no one attempted to influence its decisions.
Former Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi has stated that he never experienced any form of pressure from the government while serving as the country’s top election official between July 2010 and June 2012. Speaking in an interview with PTI Videos, he recalled that the Election Commission maintained a reputation for complete independence, making any attempt to interfere with its functioning virtually unthinkable.
Election Schedule Remained Closely Guarded
Reflecting on the conduct of elections during his tenure, Quraishi explained that the Commission kept polling schedules confidential until their official announcement. According to him, even the central government did not receive advance information about election dates.
He said the dates were disclosed only during formal press conferences held by the Election Commission. Quraishi also recalled that intelligence agencies were often keen to gather clues about the schedule before the public announcement, but the Commission ensured that the information remained protected until it was officially released.
No Evidence of Change in Present Situation
When asked whether he believes the present-day functioning of the Election Commission has changed, Quraishi declined to draw any conclusions. He said he has no information suggesting that the institution’s independence has been compromised.
While expressing hope that the Commission continues to function impartially, he made it clear that he was not in a position to comment on current operations because he does not possess firsthand knowledge of how decisions are being made today.
Comments Made Ahead of New Book Release
Quraishi shared these observations before the launch of his latest book, India and I: A Hundred Memories, Not a Memoir. Published by Hachette India, the book presents one hundred personal experiences from different stages of his life instead of following the format of a conventional autobiography.
The publication offers readers insights into significant moments from his public service and personal journey, including episodes connected to his time in the Election Commission and other aspects of his career.
Remarks Come Amid Political Debate
Quraishi’s comments have drawn attention as they come at a time when the Election Commission is facing criticism from several opposition parties. The Congress and a number of other political groups have repeatedly alleged that the Commission has been acting in a manner favourable to the ruling government while taking key electoral decisions.
These allegations have become part of a broader political debate over the autonomy of constitutional institutions, particularly during major elections. Opposition leaders have questioned whether the Commission has maintained sufficient distance from the executive while carrying out its responsibilities.
Election Commission and Government Reject Allegations
Both the Election Commission and the central government have consistently rejected accusations of political influence. They have maintained that the constitutional body performs its duties independently and that all decisions are taken in accordance with established legal and administrative procedures.
Quraishi did not endorse the allegations made by opposition parties during the interview. Instead, he limited his remarks to his own experience as Chief Election Commissioner, reiterating that the Commission operated with complete autonomy during his tenure and that official election schedules remained confidential until they were publicly announced.