New Delhi| Aug,17: The Election Commission of India has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in response to his allegations of “vote chori” (vote theft). Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday said that Gandhi must either submit an affidavit with evidence supporting his claims or issue a public apology. Failure to do so will result in the allegations being deemed baseless.
During a press conference, Kumar dismissed Gandhi’s accusations of double voting and vote theft as unfounded, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to conducting the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) transparently. He criticized Gandhi’s remarks as an affront to the Constitution and argued that such language undermines democratic institutions. Kumar also expressed concern over political parties using the Election Commission for their own agendas.
In response to Gandhi’s claims of selective treatment, Kumar clarified that while some voters had raised concerns about double voting, no substantial evidence had been presented. He reaffirmed the Election Commission’s impartiality and dedication to all voters, regardless of their background.
Gandhi, who launched the Voter Adhikar Yatra in Bihar to address alleged electoral irregularities, questioned why he was singled out for the affidavit request while BJP leaders faced no similar demands. The Yatra aims to cover over 20 districts in Bihar as part of his campaign.
