Insider track | Buzz on Congress media wing rejig
Constitution, RP Act — gifts from CEC
The Election Commission is facing heat from Opposition parties, which have raised complaints about its conduct. In response to controversies regarding electoral rolls and other issues, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar emphasised that the EC operates solely based on two key documents: The Constitution and the Representation of the People Act, 1951. These, he stated, are the only “Bibles” the EC follows when conducting polls. During an informal interaction, Kumar acknowledged the media as the commission’s “true partner” in overseeing the poll process. However, he humorously suggested that before journalists ask questions on behalf of parties, they should familiarise themselves with these two important texts. To drive home his point, he gifted each journalist a hard copy of the Constitution and the RP Act.
Europe eyes defence ties with India
The European Union is focused on deepening strategic ties with India, with the European Commission signaling strong support for the move. Commission president Ursula von der Leyen led the first visit by the College of Commissioners to India on February 27-28. India’s strategic location in the Indo-Pacific, through which about 80% of global trade passes, makes it a crucial partner for aintaining regional security and ensuring freedom of navigation—both vital to EU interests. Other European countries are also stepping up their engagement with India. India and Belgium are aiming to finalise a defence agreement within the year. Belgium is also planning to appoint its first defence attaché at its embassy in New Delhi. Germany is working to build stronger defence ties with India, particularly to monitor developments in the Indo-Pacific.
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