New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified his criticism of India’s electoral process during a lecture in Berlin, claiming a “full-scale assault” on the country’s institutions and alleging widespread “vote chori” or theft.
Speaking at the Hertie School on “Politics Is the Art of Listening,” the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha said the BJP has captured key bodies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). He pointed out that these agencies have filed zero cases against BJP members while targeting rivals. “Look at the number of cases against BJP people — you’ll find it’s zero,” Gandhi said.
He reiterated concerns over recent elections in Haryana and Maharashtra, insisting Congress won but faced unfair practices. Gandhi cited an example of a Brazilian woman listed 22 times on Haryana’s voter rolls. Despite raising these issues with the Election Commission, he claimed no response came. “We fundamentally believe there is a problem with the electoral machinery in India,” he added.
Gandhi also critiqued Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s economic approach, saying it merely extends former PM Manmohan Singh’s policies without innovation.
The BJP swiftly countered, with spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla labelling Gandhi the “Leader of Propaganda” for defaming India abroad and praising China. “He goes abroad, defames India, tells lies,” Poonawalla said.
Gandhi’s five-day Germany visit highlights ongoing tensions over election integrity, with Congress vowing to fight such issues.