Former IAS officer Arun Goel, hailing from the Punjab cadre, assumed the position of Election Commissioner on 21st November 2022. His tenure was slated to conclude in 2027. However, Goel recently submitted his resignation ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, which are expected to be held in April-May. President Droupadi Murmu accepted his resignation, although the reasons behind his decision remain undisclosed.
According to a gazette notification, the President acknowledged Goel's resignation per the provisions of The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023. Effective from 9th March 2024, Goel's resignation has prompted Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar to assume sole responsibility for overseeing the entire electoral apparatus.
Arun Goel, recognized for his contributions as an IAS officer and his previous role as Secretary in the Ministry of Heavy Industry, was actively engaged in the preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. His departure signifies a significant shift in the Election Commission's leadership, particularly as it heads into a critical period of electoral activities.
Born on December 7, 1962, in Punjab's Patiala, Arun Goel holds an M. Sc. in Mathematics and has earned accolades for his academic achievements. Throughout his tenure in various governmental roles, including Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and Vice-Chairman of the Delhi Development Authority, Goel has demonstrated exemplary leadership and managerial skills.
With Goel's resignation, attention now turns to the appointment process for new election commissioners. The implementation of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Elections Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Bill will introduce significant changes, including the formation of a committee chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to oversee the appointment of election commissioners.
Despite legal challenges in the Supreme Court, the implementation of the Bill proceeds, signaling a potential transformation in the electoral landscape. Following the retirement of Anup Pandey in February and Goel's resignation, the Election Commission panel now consists solely of Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.
