The Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has addressed claims of “vote theft” leveled by the opposition during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process of the pre-poll voter list in Bihar, unequivocally dismissing them. At a press conference, Kumar stated that such allegations, deemed “baseless,” would not undermine the Election Commission or deter voters. This was the first press interaction after the SIR process in Bihar concluded.
Kumar addressed the opposition’s allegations of vote rigging during the SIR process and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, acknowledging complaints of double voting but noting a lack of supporting evidence. He affirmed that the Election Commission operates without fear of false claims and stands without discrimination for every section of society. The ECI is not affiliated with any party and is committed to its constitutional responsibilities.
Furthermore, Kumar highlighted that the ECI considers all political parties equal, stressing that it has no preference and will not deviate from its constitutional duty regardless of party affiliation. He reiterated the importance of voting for all citizens 18 and older. These comments come in response to allegations from figures such as Rahul Gandhi, who accused the ECI of participating in voter fraud, particularly to benefit the BJP. Gandhi claimed to have proof of voter theft and alleged that elections are being orchestrated to favor the ruling party. The Lok Sabha LoP alleged the theft of 1,00,250 votes in the Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka and claimed collusion between the Election Commission and the BJP.