Has the Gandhi Family Been Manipulating Elections for Decades?
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Synopsis
In a striking address, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat condemns the Gandhi family and Congress for decades of electoral manipulation, citing historical instances of fraud. His allegations include booth capturing and misuse of government resources that have shaped Indian politics.
Key Takeaways
- Electoral Manipulation: Shekhawat claims Congress has engaged in electoral fraud for decades.
- Historical References: He cites incidents from the 1952 elections and beyond.
- Political Legacy: The Gandhi family's political history is described as rooted in deceit.
- Recent Allegations: Claims of vote manipulation continue to surface in contemporary discussions.
- Call for Accountability: Shekhawat emphasizes the need for integrity in elections.
New Delhi, Aug 14 (NationPress) Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat delivered a harsh critique of the Gandhi family and the Congress party on Thursday, accusing them of electoral manipulation spanning decades through booth capture, voter intimidation, and misuse of government machinery.
Speaking at a press conference at the BJP headquarters in the national capital, Shekhawat claimed this “legacy of fraud and deceit” is deeply embedded in the party’s history.
He referenced the inaugural General Elections in 1952, alleging that under the leadership of then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, ballot boxes were compromised, including instances where nitric acid was poured inside them, with reports covering this at the time.
Furthermore, he charged that Pandit Nehru coerced the District Collector in Rampur to transfer votes from a competitor to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, thus securing his victory.
Shekhawat also accused Congress and Communist leaders of conspiring to defeat Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1952.
Looking back, he noted how the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi allegedly abused government resources during her election campaigns, leading to her disqualification by the Allahabad High Court in 1975.
On the topic of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Shekhawat claimed there was blatant booth capturing in Amethi, where voters were obstructed from casting their ballots, necessitating a repoll due to alleged suppression.
He also highlighted the 1987 Bihar “booth loot” incident, which he termed as the first organized electoral theft in India.
The BJP leader further accused Congress of manipulating elections in Jammu and Kashmir for thirty years. Referencing the 1951 elections, he stated that all Opposition candidates’ nominations were dismissed, allowing National Conference candidates to win uncontested, allegedly with Congress’s support. Similar tactics, he asserted, were used in 1962 and 1987.
Shekhawat reiterated the BJP’s claim that senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s name was added to the voter rolls before she attained Indian citizenship.
He accused the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, of siding with “anti-India forces” during national celebrations.
“The Congress has consistently sought to hijack mandates—through booth capturing, vote-buying, or intimidation—and now they speak of preserving the Constitution. The political legacy of the Gandhi family is steeped in fraud and deceit,” declared Shekhawat.
Point of View
It is essential to approach such claims with a balanced perspective. While accusations like those made by Shekhawat are serious and warrant investigation, it is equally crucial to consider the broader context and the historical complexities of Indian politics. Our focus should remain on ensuring fair electoral practices and upholding democratic values.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations did Gajendra Singh Shekhawat make against the Gandhi family?
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat accused the Gandhi family of manipulating elections for decades through methods such as booth capturing, voter intimidation, and misuse of government machinery.
What historical events did Shekhawat reference?
He referenced the first General Elections in 1952, alleging ballot tampering under Jawaharlal Nehru, as well as incidents involving Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi.
Did Shekhawat provide evidence for his claims?
While Shekhawat cited historical incidents and alleged patterns of behavior, the presentation of concrete evidence was not detailed in his statements.
How has Congress responded to these allegations?
As of now, the Congress party has yet to provide a public response to Shekhawat's claims.
What impact could these allegations have on Indian politics?
Such allegations, if substantiated, could significantly influence public perception and potentially impact the Congress party's credibility in future elections.
