Gyanesh Kumar takes charge as Chief Election Commissioner

New Delhi: Gyanesh Kumar officially took charge as the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) today at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi, succeeding Rajiv Kumar, who completed his tenure yesterday.

In his first message after assuming office, Kumar emphasized the importance of voting in nation-building. He urged every eligible citizen of India, upon turning 18, to register as an elector and participate in the democratic process.

“In accordance with the Constitution of India, Electoral Laws, Rules, and Instructions issued therein, the Election Commission has always been, and will continue to be, with the voters,” Kumar said.

Before his appointment as CEC, Gyanesh Kumar served as an Election Commissioner since 15 March 2024. During his tenure, he oversaw several key elections, including those for the 18th Lok Sabha and the Assemblies of Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhi.

A 1988-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Kerala cadre, Kumar brings extensive experience in both central and state government roles. He has previously served as Secretary in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and the Ministry of Cooperation, further bolstering his expertise in public administration.

As the new Chief Election Commissioner, Kumar’s leadership will be crucial in ensuring the smooth conduct of elections across India, furthering the integrity of the electoral process.