Is Odisha Congress Launching a 'Mashal Yatra' to Fight Electoral Fraud in 2024 Assembly Elections?
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Synopsis
On August 14, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee, led by President Bhakta Charan Das, announced a statewide Mashal Yatra aimed at protesting alleged electoral fraud in the upcoming 2024 Assembly elections. This campaign seeks to uphold democracy and challenge the integrity of voting processes in Odisha.
Key Takeaways
- The Congress party is launching a Mashal Yatra to protest electoral fraud in the 2024 elections.
- Bhakta Charan Das claims there are serious irregularities in the voting process.
- Rahul Gandhi has accused the BJP of manipulating voter registrations.
- The Election Commission has called for proof of any fraudulent activity.
- The BJD plans to take legal action over voting discrepancies.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 14 (NationPress) The President of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC), Bhakta Charan Das, unveiled plans for a comprehensive statewide Mashal Yatra aimed at protesting alleged electoral fraud during the upcoming 2024 Assembly elections.
Das emphasized that the purpose of the protest is to “save democracy and uphold the people's mandate,” and the initiative is set to be executed across all districts of the state on Thursday.
In a media briefing, Das highlighted significant irregularities in the voter registration process, raising concerns about the polling patterns, particularly noting that approximately 42 lakh votes were cast between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.
He questioned the Biju Janata Dal (BJD)'s failure to secure any Lok Sabha seats despite winning 51 Assembly seats. Drawing comparisons to the outcomes of the 2009 elections, Das remarked that Congress had previously achieved Lok Sabha representation proportional to its assembly results, a stark contrast to the BJD's current performance.
Das stated that the Mashal Yatra will persist throughout Odisha as part of Congress' mission to “restore the integrity of democratic processes.”
At a recent press conference, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, accused the BJP of manipulating voter registrations by having multiple individuals registered at the same address, asserting that there was a conspiracy to “steal votes” in collusion with the Election Commission of India (ECI).
He mentioned that he possesses data to back his claims, yet the ECI has requested an affidavit for any substantiating evidence.
The Commission has indicated that individuals should provide proof of any instances of double voting in writing rather than labeling all Indian voters as 'Chor' without facts.
On August 7, Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of incorporating fraudulent names into voter lists, citing examples from Karnataka and alleging a “massive theft of votes” in the Mahadevapura Assembly segment of the Bangalore Central Lok Sabha seat.
These claims have been deemed baseless and misleading by the Election Commission.
Meanwhile, the opposition BJD has also announced plans to approach the Orissa High Court regarding alleged voting irregularities during the Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections held last year.
Point of View
We understand that allegations of electoral fraud are serious and can undermine public trust. The Congress party's Mashal Yatra is a significant move to engage citizens in discussions about democracy's integrity. It is crucial to address these claims with transparency and ensure that all parties adhere to fair electoral practices, fostering a healthy democratic environment.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mashal Yatra?
The Mashal Yatra is a statewide protest organized by the Odisha Congress to address alleged electoral fraud in the 2024 Assembly elections.
Who is leading the Mashal Yatra?
The Mashal Yatra is being led by Bhakta Charan Das, the President of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC).
What allegations has the Congress party made?
The Congress party has alleged serious irregularities in the voter list and unusual voting patterns, particularly between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.
What does the BJD say about these allegations?
The BJD has previously indicated intentions to approach the Orissa High Court regarding alleged voting discrepancies.
How has the Election Commission responded?
The Election Commission has dismissed the allegations as baseless and has requested evidence for any claims of double voting.
