Election Commission Rejects Opposition’s Unscheduled Meeting Demand, Terms Parliament Annexe Venue Request ‘Unusual’
New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a press statement addressing the recent standoff involving Opposition MPs and their march toward the Election Commission headquarters. The Commission clarified that until 4:00 PM today, no political party had formally requested an appointment or time for a meeting through official channels.
No Prior Request Received for Meeting
The ECI stated that while reports circulated in the media during the day regarding political parties marching to meet the Commission, no formal request had been submitted.
The Commission highlighted that as per the standard protocol established in 2025—which was communicated to and followed by all political parties—any delegation seeking a meeting must submit a request through an Authorised Representative to fix a mutually agreed-upon time. No such request was received prior to 4:00 PM.
Request for Meeting with 240 MPs at Parliament Annexe Turned Down
According to the Commission, around 4:00 PM, Delhi Police informed the ECI that a delegation of MPs led by Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi wished to meet and submit a memorandum.
As the ECI was considering the request, the DCP of Delhi Police conveyed that the proposed meeting was intended for a group of 240 MPs and that the venue requested by the delegation was the Parliament House ‘Annexe’. The Commission turned down this request, deeming it “unusual” and non-compliant with official protocols, which mandate that all formal meetings with the Election Commission must take place within the ECI HQ premises.
Opposition Rejects ECI’s Unprecedented Compromise Offer
In an effort to resolve the situation, the ECI extended an alternative proposal, offering to send its most senior working officer to the Parliament Annexe to accept the memorandum from the MPs. The Commission described this gesture as an “unprecedented step.” However, this proposal was also rejected by the delegation of MPs.
Adherence to Protocol Remains Essential
Reiterating its stance, the Election Commission stated that while it holds the highest respect for the country’s parliamentary and democratic traditions, adhering to its established protocols and institutional norms is essential. The ECI maintained that any political party is welcome to request a meeting at any time, and appointments are granted systematically based on mutual convenience and a vailability.