Should the ECI Address Its Flaws Instead of Intimidating Us?
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Synopsis
The Karnataka Congress has criticized the ECI for alleged intimidation tactics against opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, regarding claims of vote theft. They demand accountability and transparency from the electoral body, questioning the integrity of recent voter registrations in Bengaluru.
Key Takeaways
- Calls for ECI accountability
- Concerns over voter integrity
- Allegations of intimidation by ECI
- Discrepancies in voter registrations
- Political implications for the BJP
Bengaluru, Aug 13 (NationPress) The Karnataka Congress party criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday, urging the electoral body to address its deficiencies rather than allegedly intimidating them and the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, by asking him to take an oath regarding claims of 'vote theft'.
Minister for RDPR, IT and BT Priyank Kharge spoke to the media in Bengaluru, emphasizing, “Instead of reflecting on their own shortcomings, they are attempting to intimidate us,” following the release of additional information regarding the purported electoral fraud.
Kharge asserted that the Congress party is building upon earlier statements made by Rahul Gandhi about the ECI's failure to operate in a free and fair manner, and he mentioned that they have cited various local sources and provided new evidence of irregularities in the Bengaluru Central Lok Sabha constituency.
“We are simply requesting the ECI to rectify its actions instead of targeting opposition leaders. We have submitted evidence, yet instead of investigating and reporting back to the public, they are trying to pressure us. We will remain steadfast and demand clarity from the ECI regarding the incidents in the Bengaluru Central Parliamentary seat,” he stated.
Kharge highlighted that all evidence submitted by the Congress party is either government-verified or sourced from the ECI itself, and it remains accessible.
He pointed out that the regulations established by the ECI for its operations have been breached, which Congress has highlighted.
“Every document we possess has been obtained through RTI or is endorsed by the government. This aligns with what Rahul Gandhi has been asserting,” Kharge remarked.
He noted that inquiries made by media outlets among Bengaluru voters revealed claims that there are numerous Bangladeshi nationals voting for the BJP.
“It has also been alleged that BJP leaders facilitate their settlement here. BJP MLAs and MPs are aware of the presence of Bangladeshi nationals in Bengaluru. They are actively campaigning to remove these individuals,” he alleged.
Kharge further questioned the BJP about how Bangladeshi individuals are arriving in Bengaluru, asking whose duty it is to secure the borders.
“What is the connection between these individuals and the BJP? I am not making these assertions — voters are raising these questions. The BJP, not the Congress party, must provide answers,” he stressed.
He inquired how it is feasible for 100,000 voters to be added to the electoral rolls in just 11 months.
“How were 62,000 names added overnight - that’s about 160 individuals daily - with some using fraudulent transfer certificates and lacking proper addresses? Who is responsible for issuing voter IDs? Is it the state government, CM Siddaramaiah, or Rahul Gandhi? Or is it the ECI’s duty? We are merely reminding them of their responsibilities,” Kharge concluded.
Point of View
This situation highlights the importance of electoral integrity and the need for transparency in the electoral process. The accountability of the ECI is crucial, and it must address allegations raised by political parties to maintain public trust. Ensuring fair elections is paramount for the health of our democracy.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations has the Congress made against the ECI?
The Congress alleges that the ECI is intimidating opposition leaders instead of addressing its own flaws, particularly regarding claims of vote theft.
What evidence has the Congress party provided?
The Congress has presented evidence sourced from the ECI and local testimonials, claiming discrepancies in voter registrations in Bengaluru.
How has the ECI responded to these allegations?
As of now, the ECI has not made a public statement addressing the Congress's allegations.
What are the concerns regarding voter registrations?
Concerns have been raised about the rapid addition of voters to the rolls, with claims of irregularities in the process.
Why are Bangladeshi nationals being mentioned?
The Congress alleges that Bangladeshi nationals are being settled in Bengaluru and voting for the BJP, raising questions about border security.
