“Election Commission Criticizes Mallikarjun Kharge for Voter Turnout Data Remarks”

In Short

• Poll panel says Kharge’s remarks were ‘biased and deliberate attempt’ to create confusion
• It accused Kharge of creating confusion, impediments to free and fair elections
• Kharge had written to INDIA bloc leaders claiming discrepancies in voter turnout data

The Election Commission (ECI) addressed Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent comments regarding the release of voter turnout data, deeming them as unwarranted and aimed at sowing confusion regarding the credibility of electoral procedures.

In a letter directed to Kharge, the ECI asserted that his statements were reflective of a biased agenda to create ambiguity surrounding the integrity of the electoral process.

Kharge had expressed concerns over alleged discrepancies in the voter turnout data released by the Election Commission earlier in the week.

He shared these concerns in a letter addressed to leaders of the INDIA bloc, suggesting that the credibility of the Election Commission was significantly diminished as a result.

Responding to Kharge’s assertions, the ECI highlighted that his statements were factually incorrect and intended to advance a biased narrative, despite clear and verifiable evidence to the contrary, including established judicial rulings by the Supreme Court.

The Election Commission further emphasized a recurring pattern of false narratives propagated by the Congress party during past elections, citing instances such as Randeep Singh Surjewala’s claims regarding electronic voting machines during the Karnataka Assembly elections.

The Election Commission expressed deep concern over what it perceived as a trend of irresponsible statements aimed at undermining the credibility of the electoral process by a national political party.

While acknowledging the right to freedom of speech, the ECI stressed its responsibility to address developments that directly impact the conduct of elections and the delivery of results.

In conclusion, the Election Commission dismissed Kharge’s allegations and urged him to refrain from making similar statements in the future, emphasizing the need to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and maintain public confidence in democratic institutions.