Did Karnataka EC Request Rahul Gandhi to Provide a Signed Declaration on Election Fraud Claims?
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Synopsis
The Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer has formally requested a signed declaration from Rahul Gandhi regarding his allegations of election fraud. This follows a press conference where he discussed alleged misconduct in Bengaluru's electoral rolls. Gandhi's response is awaited to clarify these serious claims.
Key Takeaways
- The Karnataka CEO has requested a signed declaration from Rahul Gandhi regarding election fraud claims.
- The importance of transparency in electoral processes is emphasized.
- False declarations carry serious legal consequences.
- Rahul Gandhi must provide information voluntarily based on personal knowledge.
- The electoral rolls are prepared following strict legal guidelines.
Bengaluru, Aug 8 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events concerning the allegations of election fraud, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Karnataka has formally requested a signed declaration from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding these claims.
This letter was dispatched to Gandhi following a gathering between leaders of the Indian National Congress (INC) and the CEO, along with a press conference held by Gandhi in Delhi discussing the alleged electoral misconduct.
The CEO's letter articulated, "In terms of electoral conduct, election results can only be contested through an Election Petition submitted to the High Court. It is noted that during the press conference on August 7, you mentioned the inclusion of ineligible voters and the exclusion of eligible ones from the Electoral Rolls."
"We kindly request you to sign and submit the declaration/oath as stipulated under Rule 20(3)(b) of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, along with the names of the involved electors to initiate the necessary proceedings," the CEO indicated.
The declaration/oath provided by the State Chief Electoral Officer states, "I, Rahul Gandhi, Member of Parliament, hereby solemnly affirm and declare under oath that my statement under Rule 20 of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, regarding the names of individuals proposed for inclusion/exclusion and other details, is true to the best of my knowledge."
The format further specifies, "I am aware that providing a false declaration concerning electoral rolls is a punishable offense under Section 31 of the RP Act, 1950. Additionally, I understand that giving false evidence is punishable under Section 227 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023."
Rahul Gandhi is also expected to declare that he is not an elector within the specified constituency.
The Karnataka EC emphasized that Gandhi should confirm his personal knowledge pertinent to this case and that he is making this statement of his own volition.
The CEO also noted in the letter, "A time had been requested for the INC delegation to meet with the CEO of Karnataka to present a memorandum. Consequently, a meeting is confirmed between 1 pm and 3 pm on August 8 (Friday)."
He stated that the electoral rolls are compiled transparently in accordance with the Representation of the People's Act, 1950, the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, and directives issued by the Election Commission of India over time.
The latest electoral rolls were made available to INC representatives, including the 'Draft Electoral Rolls, 2025' and 'Final Electoral Rolls, 2025.' After final publication, the number of first appeals lodged by INC with the respective District Magistrates is 'Nil,' while the number of second-level appeals submitted by INC to the CEO of Karnataka is also 'Nil,' the CEO reported.
On Thursday, Rahul Gandhi held a press conference in Delhi detailing how the alleged election fraud transpired in the Mahadevapura Assembly seat in Bengaluru during the Lok Sabha elections.
Point of View
The request for a signed declaration from Rahul Gandhi by the Karnataka EC highlights the gravity of the allegations surrounding election fraud. It emphasizes the legal framework governing electoral conduct and the necessity for transparency in the electoral process. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to adhere to the rule of law and uphold democratic principles.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Karnataka EC's request?
The request from the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer for a signed declaration from Rahul Gandhi underscores the seriousness of the allegations surrounding election fraud and the need for a formal response to these claims.
What are the potential consequences of making a false declaration?
Providing a false declaration in connection with electoral rolls is a punishable offense under Section 31 of the RP Act, 1950, and giving false evidence is similarly punishable under Section 227 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
When is the meeting scheduled between the INC delegation and the CEO?
The meeting has been confirmed to take place between 1 pm and 3 pm on August 8 (Friday).
