SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Wednesday demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, calling for an independent and impartial Election Commission to protect democracy and ensure public confidence in the electoral process.
Speaking to reporters during his visit to the Kheer Bhawani temple in Ganderbal, Choudhary said the concerns of young people protesting against the Election Commission should be heard and addressed rather than suppressed through force.
“If the youth and the people believe that Gyanesh Kumar should resign, then he should resign. The youth are on the streets and Gyanesh Kumar will have to resign,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted unemployment among educated youth, saying many remained without government or private-sector jobs despite their parents’ efforts and sacrifices to provide them with an education.
“Today, the youth of India are demanding employment. Their parents worked hard to educate them, but even after completing their studies, they are unable to find government or private jobs,” he said.
Choudhary also referred to allegations of electoral malpractice, saying protesters were raising concerns over employment and claims of vote theft but were allegedly being met with force instead of answers.
“They are saying that jobs are not being provided and even their votes are being stolen. Instead of answering their questions, they are being subjected to baton charges. What kind of justice is this?” he asked.
Condemning the use of force against protesters, including women, he said the Constitution guaranteed freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest.
“These young people are the future of our country. You cannot silence them by using force. This is oppression and such oppression cannot continue,” he said.
Choudhary said an independent and impartial Election Commission was essential for strengthening democratic institutions in Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country.
