Naveen Patnaik Demands CEC Resignation Over Voter Process Discrepancies

Citing internal fractures within the Election Commission, former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has called for the immediate resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner. Patnaik argues that mounting friction between commissioners, coupled with reported process irregularities, necessitates a complete overhaul of the current voter registration protocols.

Editorial·September 25, 2026·reads: 772

Naveen Patnaik Demands CEC Resignation Over Voter Process Discrepancies

Patnaik’s demand follows an investigative report by the Indian Express, which revealed that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi voiced significant objections regarding discrepancies in the ongoing process. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader emphasized that his party has opposed these procedures since their inception, claiming they threaten the integrity of electoral administration.

Beyond the commission, Patnaik challenged the ruling party regarding the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment. He questioned why the government continues to deflect blame, noting that the 20 BJP Lok Sabha MPs from Odisha supported the legislation in Parliament. The former Chief Minister has formally requested that incumbent Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi convene a special session of the state Assembly to pass a resolution seeking the repeal of the amendment. Patnaik warns that the current regulatory changes will trigger a substantial loss of revenue for Odisha, and he intends to press the state government to pause all implementation until a thorough review occurs.