Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Inappropriate

The induction of M.S. Gill, former Chief Election Commissioner, in the Union Council of Ministers has set a bad precedent. It has increased the possibility of Election Commissioners aspiring for a ministerial berth after retirement and functioning in a manner that favours the party in power. This will affect the principle of free and fair elections and also invite insinuation and distrust from other political parties.

Arulur N. Balasubramanian,

Chennai

Though there is no constitutional bar on a former Chief Election Commissioner becoming a Minister, it is not appropriate. It will give rise to misgivings about the impartiality of Election Commissioners while in office. They should be barred from accepting political posts after retirement.

M.M. Kotian,

Bangalore

Making a former Chief Election Commissioner a Minister does not auger well for democracy. It is an indirect inducement to people holding high constitutional posts. Constitutional functionaries who have to do a lot of balancing act in their discharge of duties should be kept away from post-retirement enticement.

V. Krishnan,

Chennai

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