Rahul Gandhi accuses BJP and Election Commission of weakening electoral integrity, urging machine-readable rolls, stricter CCTV rules, and greater EVM access during a tense Winter Session debate.

Opposition–Government Clash as Rahul Gandhi Flags ‘Vote Theft’ Concerns

A sharp confrontation unfolded in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday as Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi demanded sweeping electoral reforms, alleging that the BJP and the Election Commission of India were allowing practices that “undermine the spirit of free and fair elections.”

Speaking during the Winter Session debate, Gandhi argued that structural loopholes were enabling irregularities, insisting that Parliament must intervene to restore public trust. His proposals included:

• Machine-readable voter lists made available at least a month before polling

• Withdrawal of rules permitting the deletion of CCTV footage in election offices

• Opposition access to EVMs for greater scrutiny

• Amending provisions that, according to him, shield Election Commissioners from accountability

BJP Rebuts Allegations

Treasury benches swiftly pushed back, highlighting that Congress governments had also appointed Election Commissioners without opposition consultation. BJP leaders argued that Gandhi’s accusations were politically motivated, especially after recent electoral setbacks.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission maintained its long-standing position that EVMs remain secure and verifiable, pointing to VVPAT-backed audits as evidence of reliability.

The exchange underscored deepening divisions over how India conducts its elections. As political parties brace for future state polls and the run-up to 2029, debates around EVM access, voter roll transparency, and the Election Commission’s independence are becoming flashpoints.

Gandhi’s push for reforms reflects rising public demand for transparency, especially in an era of digital politics and misinformation. However, the BJP’s counterargument hints at a broader struggle over institutional credibility. If Parliament fails to find consensus, India’s electoral debates may continue to fuel political polarisation rather than resolve fundamental concerns of accountability and trust.