Chawla refuses to comment on CEC's recommendation

New Delhi, Jan 31 (PTI) India's Election Commissioner
Navin Chawla, whose removal has been recommended to the
Government by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) N Gopalswami,
Saturday appeared to be in a combative mood, saying the
"dignity" of the Constitutional body is "paramount".

Refusing to comment on the CEC's recommendation,
Chawla said the Commission has conducted "flawless" elections
for the past several years. "We will continue to do so."

"The dignity of the Commission is paramount," he told
PTI on being asked about Gopalswami's recommendation to the
Government seeking his removal based on BJP's petition which
had complained of his "partisan" functioning.

Asked whether he contemplated quitting, Chawla
said "I am not even aware of the CEC recommendations. I do not
want to say anything.

The controversy has erupted nearly two months before
Gopalaswami's tenure ends. Chawla, the senior-most Election
Commissioner, was considered as the natural choice for the top
post when Gopalaswami demits office on April 20. PTI MS
PMR
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