EC Denies Congressional Plea for Extension in Election Influence Claims

The Election Commission (EC) has rejected Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's request for more time to provide evidence supporting his claims that 150 district magistrates were influenced ahead of the Lok Sabha elections vote count. The EC emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and demanded a response by June 3.

The Election Commission on Monday refused to grant additional time to Congress leader Jairam Ramesh for backing his claims that attempts were made to influence 150 district magistrates and collectors ahead of the June 4 vote count for Lok Sabha elections.

Ramesh, who had made these allegations in a recent social media post, sought a week more to submit his reply. However, the poll panel had previously asked Ramesh to submit factual details by Sunday evening.

In a letter to Ramesh, the EC stated, ''The Commission hereby outrightly rejects your request for time extension and directs you to file your response along with the factual matrix/ basis of your allegation by 7 PM today -- June 3, failing which it would be presumed that you have nothing substantive to say in the matter and the Commission would proceed ahead to take appropriate action.'' The EC underscored the gravity of the allegations, stating that they bear directly on the integrity of the counting process set for Tuesday. According to the EC, no district magistrate has reported any undue influence as claimed by Ramesh.