Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has rejected the opposition’s claims of “vote theft” during the Bihar pre-poll voter list revision process, terming them baseless and ineffective in shaking the Election Commission or the electorate. During a press conference following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar, Kumar responded to allegations made by various parties concerning irregularities and vote rigging. He pointed out the lack of supporting evidence, despite complaints of double voting, and reaffirmed the ECI’s commitment to fairness and impartiality.
Kumar stressed the commission’s unwavering stance, supporting all segments of society without discrimination. He also stated that the ECI does not favor any political party and will adhere to its constitutional mandate without bias. He emphasized that the ECI treats all parties equally and will not be swayed from its duties. In his address, Kumar reiterated that every Indian citizen of 18 years or older has a right and a responsibility to vote.
This statement follows accusations by opposition figures, including Rahul Gandhi, who alleged the ECI was directly involved in voter fraud, supposedly to benefit the BJP. Gandhi claimed to have evidence of this and accused the Commission of enabling vote theft. Gandhi cited the Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka as an example, claiming a significant number of votes were illicitly obtained. He accused the ECI of collusion with the BJP, alleging a choreographed election that resulted in Narendra Modi’s third term as Prime Minister.