‘My Values Are Not In Consonance With Current Functioning Of ECI:’ Poll Panel Counsel In SC Resigns

New Delhi: Advocate Mohit D. Ram, who was on the Election Commission’s counsel panel before the Supreme Court, has tendered his resignation stating his values “are not in consonance” with the poll body’s current functioning.

The advocate, who had been on the poll body’s counsel panel since 2013, said: “it was an honour” to represent the Election Commission which he described “a cherishing milestone” of his career.

“It was an honour to represent the Election Commission of India (ECI). I had a cherishing milestone of my career, in the journey which began with being part of the office of Standing Counsel of ECI and progressed as one of the panel counsels of ECI (since 2013),” he wrote in a letter addressed to the Director (Law) of the Commission.

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“However, I have found that my values are not in consonance with the current functioning of the ECI, and hence, I withdraw myself from the responsibilities of its panel counsel before the Supreme Court of India. I undertake to ensure a smooth transition of files, NOC and vakalatnamas in all pending matters,” he added.

The resignation comes just days after the Election Commission filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking to restrain the media from reporting oral remarks of judges.

Upholding the media’s right to report court proceedings, the apex court rejected the poll body’s petition stating such a demand went against principles of open court and the fundamental right to freedom of speech.

This came as the Madras High Court had earlier on April 26 said the Election Commission “should probably be booked for murder” for allowing crowded election campaigns and was “singularly responsible” for the current Covid spike.