Did the EC Really Dismiss the ‘Vote Theft’ Claims?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Election Commission firmly dismisses 'vote theft' allegations.
- CEC Gyanesh Kumar emphasizes transparency in electoral processes.
- The SIR initiative aims to verify electoral rolls accurately.
- Public display of voter information breaches privacy rights.
- EC stands committed to all voters without any discrimination.
New Delhi, Aug 17 (NationPress) The Election Commission (EC) on Sunday rejected allegations of ‘vote chori’ made by the Congress party, emphasizing that the poll panel stands steadfast with the voters, akin to a rock, and will never compromise the integrity of the electoral process, even amidst challenges.
At a press briefing, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar also dismissed claims of any partiality in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) initiative in Bihar, reiterating that the EC’s doors remain open to all political entities.
He affirmed that the EC does not show favoritism towards any political party and will uphold its constitutional responsibilities regardless of party affiliations.
“All political factions and booth-level officers are diligently working on the ground in a transparent manner. They are scrutinizing documents and providing video testimonials. It is concerning that these verified documents and testimonials from district party presidents and their designated BLOs are either not reaching their respective state or national leaders or efforts are made to mislead them by overlooking the ground realities,” he stated.
The CEC also criticized the public exhibition of images of numerous voters, seemingly referencing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent press conference, where he alleged malpractices, and remarked that such actions infringe on privacy as per the Supreme Court’s prior ruling.
CEC Gyanesh Kumar further asserted that misleading attempts are being made to confuse voters and tarnish the image of the poll panel with false and mischievous allegations.
He declared that the charge of vote theft is entirely unfounded and asserted that misinformation regarding the SIR initiative in Bihar is being propagated.
He stated that the Election Commission will not be deterred by these tactics and firmly stands with the voters.
“When politics is conducted with pressure on the Election Commission, we want to clarify that we will not be intimidated by such tactics, and the EC stands unwavering with all voters across all backgrounds, including the poor, rich, elderly, women, and youth without any discrimination,” he concluded.