Should Rahul Gandhi Respond to EC Queries?

Bengaluru, Aug 11 (NationPress) In response to the notice from the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka directed at the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, requesting an affidavit regarding his claims of election fraud, the state BJP emphasized the necessity for him to act responsibly and engage with the Election Commission.

During a press briefing in Bengaluru, BJP state President and MLA, B.Y. Vijayendra, commented on the notice issued to LoP Gandhi, stating, “I’m unsure if Rahul Gandhi will reply to the Election Commission’s correspondence. However, I hope he, as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, conducts himself with responsibility. He has accused the Election Commission of this nation.”

“The Election Commission is a constitutional entity that deserves respect, and its reputation ought to be safeguarded. Therefore, this situation should not be treated lightly. I sincerely hope LoP Gandhi approaches this issue seriously and responds to the Election Commission’s letter,” Vijayendra added.

“Above any action by the Election Commission, I believe it is crucial for every representative, including MLA, MLC, or MP, to safeguard such democratic institutions. Their integrity should not be compromised for political advantage. Instead of blaming the Election Commission, it’s time for LoP Gandhi to provide a comprehensive explanation,” Vijayendra asserted.

“LoP Gandhi must adequately respond and address the inquiries raised by the Election Commission,” he concluded.

BJP MLA and former minister S. Sureshkumar stated, “At this crucial juncture, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha must demonstrate his respect for Indian laws and regulations. Rahul Gandhi should exhibit regard for constitutional bodies like the Election Commission. He should respond appropriately and submit the necessary documentation related to his allegations, including the affidavit.”

BJP MLC N. Ravikumar expressed, “The Election Commission has requested Rahul Gandhi to file a complaint, yet he remains unwilling. He seems more focused on protesting as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, the Election Commission is investigating the alleged misconduct and has pledged to conduct an inquiry. Why has the Opposition remained silent for two years?”

“LoP Gandhi is only now raising the issue after a two-year silence. I urge him to present a proper complaint to the Election Commission. The Commission is prepared to take action and has requested an affidavit and additional details in accordance with the Constitution. They must adhere to due process. Rahul Gandhi is sending someone else to file the complaint. There is a procedure for the Election Commission to follow. If the necessary steps are taken, the complaint will be resolved. However, Rahul Gandhi is not cooperating. He delivers speeches while evading accountability, employing hit-and-run tactics,” Ravikumar claimed.

BJP MLC C.T. Ravi remarked, “If Rahul Gandhi possesses evidence, he should submit a complaint to the Election Commission along with the affidavit. Following the complaint, the investigation will commence. Once the investigation is concluded, appropriate actions will be taken against those found guilty. Making accusations on the streets without evidence will only generate headlines, with no consequences for the guilty parties.”

“It is unbecoming for the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, to make allegations without substantiating evidence,” he stated.

However, Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs H.K. Patil remarked that the Election Commission should regard LoP Gandhi’s public statements as a suo moto complaint. They should initiate a complaint and begin an investigation, given that LoP Gandhi holds a statutory position.

In a strong rebuttal to the notice issued to LoP Rahul Gandhi, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated on Monday that the State Election Commission lacks the authority to send such a notice to him.

While addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Deputy CM Shivakumar remarked, “Let them issue a notice — who are they to serve a notice to Rahul Gandhi? We have issued a notice to them. We hold the power to issue notices, and we will send one to them.”

It is worth noting that Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) V. Anbukumar had issued a notice to LoP Gandhi, requesting him to present relevant documents concerning his allegations of election fraud. The CEO also emphasized in the notice that the documents displayed during Rahul Gandhi’s press conference were not official.

The notice was served to the Congress MP on August 10, requesting necessary documents to investigate the allegations he made during his press conference in Delhi on August 7.