In a surprising turn of events leading up to the Lok Sabha polls, Election Commissioner Arun Goel has tendered his resignation, which has been accepted by the President. The Election Commission of India, which already faced a vacancy, is now left with only Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.

Reports from NDTV on Friday indicated that the Lok Sabha election dates are expected to be announced next week. However, the resignation of Mr. Goel raises uncertainties about whether this development will impact the planned timeline.

The three-member Commission had already been reduced to two following the retirement of Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey in February. With the acceptance of Goel’s resignation, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar remains the sole member on the panel.

Arun Goel, a former IAS officer, assumed the role of Election Commissioner on November 21, 2022. His appointment drew controversy as he had served as the Union Heavy Industries Secretary before taking voluntary retirement from the Indian Administrative Services on November 18, 2022. A day later, he was appointed to the Commission. The unexpected resignation has now raised questions about the electoral preparations and the potential impact on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

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