In a revealing account, former CEC SY Quraishi shares how Manmohan Singh reacted to criticism of the Election Commission during the 2012 elections.
New Delhi, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: The interplay between politics and the integrity of democratic institutions is often fraught with tension, as illustrated by the poignant moment recounted by former Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi in his recent book, "India and I: A Hundred Memories, Not a Memoir." This incident, which took place during the 2012 Uttar Pradesh state elections, sheds light on the pressures faced by political leaders and the potential ramifications of public discourse on their mental well-being.
In the context of Indian politics, the Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a crucial role in ensuring free and fair elections. Established in 1950, the ECI is tasked with overseeing the conduct of elections in the country, and it operates under the framework of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). This code is designed to ensure that political parties and candidates adhere to certain ethical standards during election campaigns. However, the enforcement of these standards can lead to significant backlash, particularly from those who feel targeted by the Commission's decisions.
The backdrop of Quraishi's encounter with Singh involved a controversial statement made by then-Minister Salman Khurshid. Khurshid's promise to increase job quotas for Muslims from 4.5% to 9% if his party won the elections was perceived as a violation of the MCC. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) promptly filed a complaint against him, leading the ECI to deliberate on the matter. After careful consideration, the Commission decided to censure Khurshid, marking it as one of the strongest actions it could take under the MCC. This decision, however, did not come without consequences; it sparked a wave of criticism directed at the ECI, with some Congress party members accusing the Commission of being "arrogant or arbitrary."
In this politically charged environment, Quraishi felt compelled to address the growing discontent directed at the ECI. He confided his concerns to Harish Khare, who was then serving as the Press Secretary to Prime Minister Singh. Recognizing the potential fallout from the situation, Khare suggested that Quraishi escalate the matter to Singh himself. This recommendation led to an urgent meeting between Quraishi and Singh, revealing the emotional toll that political criticism can take on leaders.
During their meeting, Singh's distress was evident. His reaction to Quraishi's comments was one of profound sensitivity, culminating in the alarming statement, "If that is what you think, I will commit suicide." This reaction underscores the pressures that political figures often face, particularly when their integrity and capabilities are called into question. For Singh, who had long been regarded as a steady and composed leader, the implications of public criticism were deeply personal. Quraishi, taken aback by Singh's response, worked diligently to reassure him that his comments were not a personal indictment but rather a critique of the conduct of specific ministers.
Singh's emotional response reflects a broader issue within political leadership—the struggle to maintain one's composure and resolve in the face of criticism. His subsequent remarks, expressing regret for not having taken a more assertive stance against those who had criticized the ECI, further illustrate his commitment to the integrity of democratic institutions. Singh's declaration that the ECI represents "the soul of our democracy" highlights the importance he placed on maintaining the Commission's credibility, particularly during a contentious election period.
Following the meeting, Quraishi noted a significant shift in the discourse surrounding the ECI. The innuendos and criticisms directed at the Commission ceased, suggesting that Singh's leadership had a stabilizing effect on the situation. This outcome not only reflects Singh's ability to navigate complex political landscapes but also underscores the importance of effective communication between leaders and institutions. In an era where political discourse can often become hostile and divisive, Singh's approach serves as a reminder of the need for sensitivity and understanding in leadership.
Quraishi's reflections on Singh's character provide valuable insight into the nature of political power. In a profession that often rewards a thick skin and a robust demeanor, Singh stood out for his rare sensitivity. This quality, while it may be perceived as a vulnerability in the cutthroat world of politics, can also be seen as a strength—an ability to empathize with the concerns of others and to understand the broader implications of political actions.
The implications of this incident extend beyond the immediate context of the Uttar Pradesh elections. They raise important questions about the mental health of political leaders and the pressures they face in their roles. The acknowledgment of such pressures is critical, particularly in a country like India, where the political landscape is often marred by intense rivalry and public scrutiny. The conversation around mental health, particularly in high-stakes environments, remains a pertinent issue that warrants further exploration.
Moreover, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the integrity of democratic institutions. As political leaders navigate the complexities of governance, the role of the ECI must be upheld as a cornerstone of democracy. The ability of the Commission to operate independently and without fear of political reprisal is essential for maintaining public trust in electoral processes.
In conclusion, the exchange between SY Quraishi and Dr. Manmohan Singh highlights the intricate dynamics of political leadership and the emotional toll that public criticism can exert on individuals in positions of power. It underscores the importance of empathy and understanding within political discourse and serves as a call to action for leaders to prioritize the integrity of democratic institutions. As we reflect on these events, it is crucial to recognize that discussions around mental health and the pressures of leadership are not just relevant to politicians but resonate across all sectors of society.
Discussing suicides can be triggering for some. However, suicides are preventable.
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