Karnataka Voter Deletion Scandal: A Deepening Investigation

The Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer has disclosed information to aid the investigation into the alleged deletion of 6,018 votes in Aland, amidst accusations from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of systematic vote tampering. An FIR has been lodged, with most applications for deletion deemed incorrect.

Allegations have surfaced regarding the attempted deletion of 6,018 votes in Karnataka's Aland constituency ahead of the 2023 assembly polls. The office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has confirmed sharing all pertinent information with the Election Commission of India (ECI) and local police to aid investigations.

The CEO's office emphasized that the FIR was filed by Electoral Registration Officers (ERO) operating under the ECI's directive. Congress, led by Rahul Gandhi, has criticized the Election Commission, urging further transparency and action while accusing the Chief Election Commissioner of bias.

According to the CEO, out of the 6,018 applications, only 24 were genuine. The remaining applications were rejected after verification by various officers. This ongoing investigation has drawn significant political attention, with implications for Karnataka's democratic process.

(With inputs from agencies.)