Rahul Gandhi alleges 'stolen elections' in Assam and Bengal, targets EC

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has escalated his attack on the Election Commission of India, alleging that recent assembly elections in Assam and West Bengal were marred by irregularities. He described the outcomes as 'stolen elections' and accused the poll panel of complicity.

Speaking at a press conference, Gandhi claimed that the electoral process in these states was not free and fair. He pointed to instances of voter suppression and manipulation, though he did not provide specific evidence during his address.

Allegations of EC bias

Gandhi's remarks come weeks after the results in Assam and West Bengal, where the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies made significant gains. The Congress leader alleged that the Election Commission turned a blind eye to irregularities, effectively backing the ruling party.

He referenced similar concerns raised earlier in states like Maharashtra and Haryana, where opposition parties had questioned the neutrality of the poll body. Gandhi argued that the pattern suggests a systemic issue rather than isolated incidents.

Political context and reactions

The allegations have sparked a fresh war of words between the Congress and the BJP. BJP leaders dismissed Gandhi's claims as sour grapes, pointing to the Congress's poor electoral performance. They defended the Election Commission, calling it an impartial institution.

Election Commission officials have not yet responded to Gandhi's specific allegations. However, the poll panel has previously rejected similar accusations, stating that all elections are conducted as per law.

Political analysts note that such allegations are common in Indian politics, especially after electoral defeats. But Gandhi's direct attack on the EC marks a sharper tone, reflecting the opposition's growing frustration with the poll body's functioning.

What happens next

The Congress has indicated it will raise the issue in Parliament and approach the judiciary if necessary. The Election Commission's next report on the conduct of these elections will be closely watched for any admission of flaws.

For now, the allegations remain unsubstantiated, but they have already deepened the trust deficit between the opposition and the election machinery. How the EC responds could shape the narrative ahead of upcoming state polls.