Election Chief Challenges Rahul Gandhi on 'Vote Theft' Allegations

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar challenges Rahul Gandhi's 'vote theft' accusations, demanding an affidavit within seven days. Kumar criticizes misinformation on electoral roll revision, emphasizing transparency and collaboration. Opposition sees the process as biased, while EC maintains its legal duty to ensure accurate voter lists.

In a heated exchange surrounding allegations of 'vote theft' in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has issued a sharp ultimatum to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi—submit a signed affidavit within a week or face having his allegations deemed baseless.

During a press conference, Kumar, alongside Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, urged Gandhi to substantiate his claims with a formal declaration as per electoral rules or to apologize. He underlined that the Election Commission cannot take action based on presentations lacking formal evidence.

The confrontation comes as the Election Commission conducts a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Kumar stresses transparency in the process, inviting all political parties to aid in correcting errors. Despite opposition criticism, Kumar reiterates the Commission's commitment to an impartial electoral system.

(With inputs from agencies.)