Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has sparked a political storm with his recent remarks during a speech in Boston, USA, where he alleged that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is “compromised.” Gandhi raised concerns over the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, claiming irregularities in voter turnout figures.
Gandhi’s Allegations
Speaking to an audience of the Indian diaspora, Gandhi stated that 65 lakh votes were added to the total count between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM, a spike he described as “physically impossible.” He argued that the time required for each voter to cast their ballot made such a surge improbable without long queues extending late into the night, which he claimed was not observed. Gandhi also criticized the ECI for allegedly denying requests for videography of polling stations and amending election laws to limit access to such materials.
“There is something very wrong with the system,” Gandhi asserted, reiterating his belief that the ECI’s integrity had been compromised.
BJP’s Strong Rebuttal
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) responded sharply, with spokesperson Sambit Patra calling Gandhi a “traitor” for making such allegations on foreign soil. Patra accused Gandhi of venting frustration over the Enforcement Directorate’s investigation into the National Herald case, which involves both Rahul and Sonia Gandhi.
“You are not just insulting Indian institutions but also indulging in corruption. The ED will not spare you,” Patra declared during a press conference, adding that Gandhi’s remarks were an attempt to tarnish India’s democratic image internationally.
Political Fallout
Gandhi’s comments have reignited debates over the transparency of India’s electoral process, with the Congress party defending his right to question institutional accountability. Meanwhile, the BJP has doubled down on its criticism, accusing Gandhi of undermining national institutions for political gain.
