Did Deve Gowda Just Highlight Electoral Flaws from Nehru's Time?
Synopsis
In a recent critique, H.D. Deve Gowda has called out the Congress party for its 'vote chori' claims, pointing to historical electoral shortcomings even in Jawaharlal Nehru's era. His remarks raise questions about the efficacy of Congress's strategies and their implications for future elections.
Key Takeaways
Electoral flaws have persisted since the Nehru era.
Congress's 'vote chori' claims face criticism.
Bihar election results highlight Congress's challenges.
Deve Gowda calls for introspection within Congress.
Confidence in PM Modi's leadership remains strong.
New Delhi, Dec 15 (NationPress) Former Prime Minister and JD-S Rajya Sabha member H.D. Deve Gowda criticized the Congress party on Monday regarding the accusation of ‘vote chori’, asserting that the electoral process in India has faced limitations even during the tenure of the nation’s inaugural Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
“Even in Nehru’s era, there were specific flaws in our country’s electoral framework,” the former Prime Minister stated while engaging in a discussion in the Rajya Sabha about the ‘vote chori’ controversy.
He referenced a correspondence from Jawaharlal Nehru concerning the addition of 18,000 voters in Kerala.
Having served as Prime Minister from June 1, 1996, to April 21, 1997, Deve Gowda shared that throughout his extensive public service spanning over seven decades, he has encountered both triumphs and setbacks in elections.
“I have never mentioned vote theft,” he remarked.
The former Prime Minister pointed out that despite highlighting issues with voter lists, the Congress party recently faced a setback in the Bihar elections.
He emphasized that Congress should reflect on their performance in Bihar, even after a thorough revision of the voter rolls.
“Congress secured only six seats in that state,” he noted.
Deve Gowda asserted that the INDIA Bloc is fabricating a misleading narrative against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration and the nation's constitutional bodies under the guise of “vote chori.”
“With such unfounded claims, Congress risks facing significant repercussions in the future as they persist in disseminating falsehoods and instilling doubt among voters. This strategy will not be advantageous for you,” he cautioned.
Deve Gowda reminded that India is a vast nation and that Congress governs only in a limited number of states.
“My opposition friends, it is crucial to recognize that invoking terms like ‘vote chori’ will lead to difficulties ahead. You will struggle to win this battle,” he advised Congress.
He added that by undermining Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership with propaganda about “vote chori,” Congress is merely fostering suspicion among the electorate.
“What has happened to your reasoning? You need to reassess your approach,” he stated.
Deve Gowda also highlighted the existence of an Election Commission and a Supreme Court in the country, urging Congress to utilize these institutions effectively.
“The Election Commission has instructed all state units to tackle these issues,” he mentioned.
He concluded by asserting that the citizens of the nation hold “complete trust” in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
“PM Modi will be re-elected even after the upcoming Lok Sabha elections,” the former Prime Minister declared.
Point of View
H.D. Deve Gowda's comments reflect a broader concern regarding the efficacy of political strategies employed by major parties. The call for reflection within the Congress party indicates a need for introspection in light of recent electoral outcomes, emphasizing the importance of constructive criticism in a democratic setup.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Deve Gowda say about Congress's allegations?
Deve Gowda criticized Congress for their 'vote chori' allegations, stating that electoral shortcomings have existed since Nehru's era.
What historical reference did Deve Gowda make?
He referenced a letter from Jawaharlal Nehru discussing the addition of 18,000 voters in Kerala.
What was the outcome of Congress in the Bihar elections?
Deve Gowda pointed out that Congress secured only six seats in Bihar despite revisions to the voter lists.
What does Deve Gowda suggest Congress should do?
He advised Congress to reflect on their election strategies and utilize the Election Commission and Supreme Court effectively.
What does Deve Gowda believe about PM Modi's government?
He expressed confidence that the people have 'complete faith' in PM Modi's government and predicted his re-election.
