New Delhi : The political temperature in India soared on Sunday after the Election Commission of India (ECI) issued an ultimatum to Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi over his controversial “vote chori” remarks. The Commission asked Gandhi to either submit an affidavit with evidence supporting his allegations within seven days or issue a public apology, warning that failure to comply would result in all accusations being treated as false.
The ruling BJP welcomed the ECI’s action, pressing Gandhi to adhere to the deadline. Union Minister Giriraj Singh questioned the LoP’s evidence, stating, “Spreading confusion will not help. How many names has he found and submitted to the Election Commission?” Similarly, Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya accused Gandhi of spreading chaos and undermining constitutional institutions. “His conduct is neither democratic nor constitutional,” Maurya said, adding that the LoP’s statements were irresponsible.
Madhya Pradesh Minister Vishvas Sarang and UP Minister Anil Rajbhar also supported the ECI, highlighting the need for factual evidence and proper procedures. JD(U) MP Dileshwar Kamait emphasized that an affidavit is necessary to ensure impartiality and maintain public trust in elections.
However, the Opposition firmly refused to apologise. Congress MPs Pramod Tiwari and Imran Masood defended Gandhi, insisting that he spoke the truth boldly and with conviction. Masood criticized the ECI for failing to address key issues, including alleged fake voters in the Lok Sabha.
Allies of the Opposition, including Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, SP MP Ram Gopal Yadav, and NCP MLA Rohit Pawar, accused the Commission of partisanship, claiming it acted as an extension of the BJP to suppress dissent. Chaturvedi called the ECI’s press briefing a “scripted event” aimed at targeting opposition voices rather than addressing concerns substantively.
The standoff underscores escalating political tensions ahead of upcoming elections. The ECI maintains that following formal procedures is essential to safeguard electoral integrity, while the Opposition contends that the Commission is misusing its authority.
As the seven-day deadline approaches, all eyes are on whether Rahul Gandhi will submit evidence or maintain his refusal to apologise, a move that could further intensify political debate across the country.
