Why Did Rahul Gandhi Not Respond to Repeated Invites from EC?

New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has categorically denied accusations made by the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, who claimed that the electoral body is involved in “vote chori” (vote theft) to favor the BJP.

Labeling the allegations as “baseless,” the Commission reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.

In a comprehensive reply, ECI sources indicated that despite multiple attempts to reach out to Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader has not demonstrated any willingness to formally express his concerns.

A letter and an email were dispatched to Gandhi on June 12, 2025, inviting him to present evidence or engage in discussions, according to sources. However, they noted that there was no response from his side.

Officials highlighted that Gandhi has never submitted any formal letter, complaint, or representation to the Commission regarding any electoral matters.

The Commission expressed significant concern over the nature of Gandhi’s recent statements, asserting that they not only contain unverified claims but also echo veiled threats against EC officials.

“It is quite unusual that instead of following due process and reaching out to this constitutional body, such wild and irresponsible claims are being made - and now even threats are being issued. This is unacceptable,” the sources stated.

Despite these developments, the Election Commission emphasized its commitment to remaining focused on its duties, urging all electoral officials nationwide to uphold their responsibilities with impartiality and transparency, resisting attempts at distraction from what it termed “politically motivated and unfounded”

The Commission's remarks follow Rahul Gandhi’s recent press conference, wherein he asserted that his party possesses “open and shut” evidence of alleged electoral fraud involving the ECI.

Describing this alleged evidence as an “atom bomb,” he cautioned that once it is disclosed, the Commission would have “nowhere to hide.”

He reiterated claims of irregularities during the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, which continued into the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, including alleged voter list “manipulations” in Maharashtra.

This is not the first instance of Gandhi questioning the EC’s operations. Earlier in June, he published an article alleging “match-fixing” in the Maharashtra elections and insinuating that similar manipulations could occur in areas where the BJP is facing challenges.

In response to his demands for CCTV footage from Maharashtra polling stations during the last hours of voting, the Commission clarified that such footage is legally available to a competent high court if an election petition is filed.

It emphasized that proper institutional mechanisms for addressing concerns are in place and must be adhered to by anyone raising issues about the electoral process.