272 prominent Indians condemn Rahul Gandhi’s ‘vote theft’ claims, urge respect for Election Commission

New Delhi In a major public statement, a group of 272 distinguished citizens, including retired judges, former civil servants, and military officers, have strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent allegations of “vote theft” and attacks on the credibility of the Election Commission (EC).

The group, representing a diverse cross-section of Indian society, condemned what they called Gandhi’s “impotent rage” and baseless attacks on constitutional institutions like the Election Commission, accusing him of undermining their integrity.

The statement came in response to Rahul Gandhi’s repeated accusations that the Election Commission was complicit in “vote theft,” especially in the aftermath of the Bihar elections, where the Congress Party faced significant defeats. Gandhi, who has made several public comments accusing the EC of being biased and unfair, was heavily criticized by the group for using “unfounded rhetoric” and undermining the institution’s credibility.

According to the statement, which was signed by prominent figures such as former judge S.N. Dhingra, Hemant Gupta, Rajeev Lochan, former RAW chief Sanjeev Tripathi, and former NIA director Y.C. Modi, Gandhi’s remarks represent an “irrational and unsubstantiated rage” against the Election Commission.

The group stressed that despite these serious accusations, Gandhi has failed to provide any concrete evidence, affidavits, or formal complaints to substantiate his claims. The group also noted that it is typical for opposition leaders to question the Election Commission only when election results are unfavorable to them, calling such criticisms “purposeful” and “opportunistic.”

They highlighted that democratic systems should allow for disagreements, but they should be based on facts, not on baseless allegations that threaten the credibility of the institutions responsible for conducting free and fair elections.

The public statement also referenced the legacy of former Chief Election Commissioners T.N. Seshan and N. Gopalaswami, who upheld the authority of the Election Commission with integrity and fearlessness. The signatories emphasized that the Election Commission’s role as a “robust constitutional watchdog” has been instrumental in ensuring democracy thrives in India, and its neutrality and transparency should be respected by all political parties.

In their statement, the group called for a more constructive approach to political engagement, urging that political leaders should focus on policies and governance, rather than attacking institutions when they do not get the results they desire. They also emphasized that political leaders must accept the outcome of elections with maturity and responsibility, promoting democratic values rather than undermining them.

“Rahul Gandhi’s repeated attacks on the Election Commission seem to reflect a deep frustration with electoral setbacks rather than a genuine concern for electoral integrity,” the statement read. “Instead of baselessly accusing the EC of bias, politicians should embrace the spirit of democracy, respect the electoral process, and work towards improving their policies to win the trust of the electorate.”

The group of 272 signatories reaffirmed their commitment to supporting democratic institutions like the Election Commission and urged all political leaders to show restraint, responsibility, and respect for the institutions that safeguard India’s democracy.

Also Read: Heavy Rainfall and Floods Claim 631 Lives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan