New Delhi — Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has alleged that large-scale “vote theft” is taking place under the watch of the Election Commission of India (ECI), claiming that the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is shielding those responsible.
In a sharp attack, Gandhi said the manipulation of votes threatens the foundation of Indian democracy and accused the poll body of siding with the ruling establishment. He described it as a “serious revelation” that undermines the faith of citizens in free and fair elections.
“The people of India deserve transparency and accountability. Instead, what we are seeing is complicity and protection of those involved in stealing the mandate,” Gandhi charged during his address.
The ECI swiftly dismissed the allegations as baseless and misleading. In its response, the commission reaffirmed its neutrality and said it remains committed to ensuring that elections are conducted with the highest integrity and fairness.
Political observers note that Gandhi’s remarks are likely to fuel renewed debates over electoral reforms and the credibility of India’s democratic institutions. While opposition parties echoed concerns about transparency, ruling party leaders criticized Gandhi for attempting to discredit independent institutions.
The episode has added another layer of tension to India’s already heated political climate, with both sides preparing to escalate the issue in Parliament and the public sphere.