New Delhi | August 24, 2025:
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s nationwide campaign against alleged ‘vote theft’ is facing major challenges after the Election Commission of India (ECI) released detailed clarifications on the disputed voter lists.
Bihar at the Centre of the Storm
Rahul Gandhi launched a *padayatra in Bihar, claiming that *65 lakh votes were stolen during the last elections. He alleged that this large-scale manipulation had affected the outcome in several constituencies, weakening the mandate of the people.
However, the Election Commission published a comprehensive breakdown of the 25 lakh votes that were officially removed from electoral rolls in the state. It clarified whose votes were removed, the reasons for deletion, and the verification process followed. The data showed that most deletions were due to duplicate entries, deceased voters, or migration – leaving little scope for “theft.”
Opposition Struggles to Prove Claims
Political observers note that neither the RJD nor the Congress has been able to highlight major flaws in the revised lists. Normally, any small discrepancy would have sparked loud protests. But in this case, there is no clear evidence to back the 65-lakh vote theft claim.
The Supreme Court too has expressed displeasure at political parties using voter roll revisions for political mileage without substantial proof.
Congress Under Pressure
Despite the ECI’s explanation, Rahul Gandhi has declared that the Congress will continue organizing *nationwide rallies and sit-in protests. Party leaders argue that voter deletions in Bihar, Maharashtra, and Haryana reflect a pattern of *“systematic voter suppression” that cost them key seats in the Lok Sabha elections.
In some constituencies, including Mahadevpura, discrepancies were flagged, but experts say such anomalies occur in every large urban constituency and are not unique.
Need for Strong Evidence
Analysts suggest that if Rahul Gandhi wants his campaign to resonate, he must present concrete evidence rather than broad allegations. Without proof, the “vote theft” narrative risks being seen as political posturing rather than a serious democratic concern.
Impact on Public Sentiment
Political strategists warn that unless backed by facts, such movements may weaken the Congress party’s connect with voters. Taking on the Election Commission, a constitutional body, could also invite criticism that the party is undermining democratic institutions.
Key Highlights:
- Rahul Gandhi alleges 65 lakh votes stolen in Bihar.
- Election Commission clarifies deletions were mostly due to duplication, deaths, or migration.
- No major flaws found in revised Bihar voter lists.
- Supreme Court expresses concern over “baseless political campaigns.”
- Congress vows to continue protests but faces pressure to show evidence.