New Delhi, May 21: Former President of India Pranab Mukherjee on Monday came to the rescue of the Election Commission of India (EC), which is facing charges of favouritism and impartiality by the Opposition. Mukherjee not only appreciated the poll body for its role over the years, but also credited the Election Commission for the success of democracy in India.

"If we want to strengthen institutions we've to keep in mind institutions are serving well in this country and if democracy has succeeded, it's largely due to perfect conduct of elections by Election Commissioner starting from Sukumar Sen to present Election Commissioners," remarked Pranab Mukherjee.

The former President's endorsement comes as a booster for the EC, which has been facing a hostile and unprecedented questioning on its conduct by the Opposition, immediately after the exit polls of Lok Sabha Elections 2019 were announced on Sunday after final phase of polling concluded on Sunday.

After BSP supremo Mayawati and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee openly criticised the EC and alleged the poll body of being "biased" towards the BJP, Congress President  Rahul Gandhi on Sunday tweeted after exit polls results.

The Congress President condemned the Election Commission and said that, "From Electoral Bonds & EVMs to manipulating the election schedule, NaMo TV, “Modi’s Army” & now the drama in Kedarnath; the Election Commission’s capitulation before Mr Modi & his gang is obvious to all Indians. The EC used to be feared & respected. Not anymore."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 21, 2019 02:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).