Was Maharashtra's Democracy Butchered During the 2024 Elections?
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Synopsis
On June 7, Ramesh Chennithala, the Congress' Maharashtra in-charge, condemned the brutal undermining of democracy during the 2024 Assembly elections, urging vigilance and awareness among citizens. His claims point to significant electoral irregularities that demand thorough investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Chennithala's claims highlight potential electoral misconduct.
- Significant discrepancies in voter turnout raise questions.
- The need for vigilance and accountability in elections is emphasized.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 7 (NationPress) The Congress' Maharashtra in-charge, veteran leader Ramesh Chennithala, stated on Saturday that the manner in which democracy was undermined during the 2024 Assembly elections was the most brutal attack on democratic principles, urging citizens to remain vigilant.
"Upon taking charge of Maharashtra in early 2024, the Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi stood firm against the Modi influence in the Lok Sabha elections. The people of Maharashtra rose against propaganda and pressure, delivering a significant verdict that left the BJP alliance in disarray. The BJP’s defeat in Maharashtra, alongside its lackluster performance in Uttar Pradesh, was crucial in thwarting its quest for an absolute majority nationally," remarked Chennithala, a former Home Minister of Kerala.
He highlighted that just six months later, during the Assembly elections, the same Maha Vikas Aghadi, which was expected to secure over 170 seats, was drastically reduced to a mere 50.
“Is it plausible that this shocking reversal was due to governance or public sentiment? Even the staunchest BJP supporter would be reluctant to assert that. If Prime Minister Narendra Modi could not influence Maharashtra, how could Eknath Shinde, whose political career is tainted by betrayal and opportunism, instigate such a wave?” Chennithala questioned.
“This wasn't mere chance. It was a calculated and premeditated effort to distort the electoral will. Democracy in Maharashtra wasn't just defeated; it was blatantly undermined," he added.
Moreover, he noted that in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Maharashtra had 89.8 million registered voters. By the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, this number naturally increased to 92.9 million, a five-year growth of 3.1 million.
However, within just five months, during the 2024 Assembly elections, the voter count inexplicably surged to 97 million, an astonishing increase of 4.1 million in less than half a year.
“This data defies logic. Even the official estimate of the adult population in Maharashtra is 95.4 million. On election day, the initial turnout was reported at 58.22 percent. Without any reports of long lines or late-night voting, it should have remained consistent. Instead, by morning, the turnout miraculously jumped to 66.05 percent, adding over 7.6 million votes overnight, predominantly favoring BJP candidates,” Chennithala alleged.
We urge the Election Commission to speak out. The people of Maharashtra and all of India deserve explanations.
“We call on every citizen to remain vigilant, informed, and united. If we allow this subversion to continue unchecked, we risk losing not only elections but also the very freedoms that define us,” concluded Chennithala.
Point of View
It's essential to approach this matter with a focus on transparency and accountability. The allegations raised by Chennithala warrant a thorough investigation, and the integrity of our electoral process must be upheld. The concerns voiced resonate with many citizens who seek to protect their democratic rights and freedoms.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations did Ramesh Chennithala make regarding the 2024 elections?
Chennithala alleged that the democratic process was severely undermined during the 2024 Assembly elections, citing suspicious voter turnout and irregularities.
How did the voter count change from the Lok Sabha to Assembly elections?
The registered voter count reportedly increased from 92.9 million in Lok Sabha elections to 97 million in the Assembly elections, raising concerns about the legitimacy of this spike.
What does Chennithala urge the Election Commission to do?
He urges the Election Commission to address these allegations and provide clarity regarding the electoral process.
