24-SEP-2025, 12:00 PM Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has once again taken a sharp dig at the Election Commission of India (ECI), this time targeting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. Gandhi alleged large-scale voter deletion across several constituencies, calling it an “attack on democracy.” Using the phrase “We caught the stealing,” Rahul Gandhi accused the CEC of being complicit in what he described as deliberate attempts to undermine the electoral process ahead of crucial state and national elections.
The controversy has sparked intense political debate, with opposition leaders rallying behind Gandhi’s remarks while the Election Commission has denied any wrongdoing. The issue brings voter rights, election integrity, and transparency under renewed public scrutiny.
Rahul Gandhi Raises Alarm on Voter Deletion
Allegations Against CEC Gyanesh Kumar
At a press briefing, Rahul Gandhi accused CEC Gyanesh Kumar of overseeing the systematic deletion of genuine voters from electoral rolls. According to Gandhi, these actions disproportionately target sections of society who traditionally support the opposition, thereby weakening the democratic process.
He alleged that lakhs of voters’ names were mysteriously missing in recent revisions of electoral rolls, particularly in constituencies where the ruling party faced a tough fight. Gandhi argued that this deliberate disenfranchisement undermines citizens’ constitutional rights.
“We Caught the Stealing”
By declaring “We caught the stealing,” Rahul Gandhi positioned the Congress as a vigilant force standing up for democracy. His remarks suggested that the party had evidence of irregularities and would continue to expose them. The phrase quickly gained traction on social media, resonating with both supporters and critics.
Political Reactions to Rahul Gandhi’s Claims
Support From Opposition Leaders
Several opposition figures came forward to support Rahul Gandhi. Leaders from regional parties, including the RJD, TMC, and DMK, echoed his concerns, demanding greater accountability from the Election Commission. They emphasized the need for independent audits of voter lists to ensure fairness in the upcoming elections.
BJP’s Counterattack
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly rejected Gandhi’s allegations, dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. Party leaders argued that the Election Commission functions independently and that voter deletions occur as part of routine updates, such as the removal of deceased or duplicate entries. They accused Rahul Gandhi of attempting to discredit institutions ahead of elections.
Election Commission’s Response
Denial of Wrongdoing
The Election Commission, under CEC Gyanesh Kumar, responded swiftly to Rahul Gandhi’s allegations. The Commission clarified that voter list revisions are conducted transparently and in line with established procedures. It denied any targeted voter deletion, emphasizing that deletions only occur when voters fail to provide updated information, have shifted constituencies, or in cases of duplication.
Calls for Transparency
Despite the denial, civil society groups and election observers have called for greater transparency. Many argue that while administrative errors can occur, the lack of clarity fuels suspicion and erodes public trust. Critics suggest that the Commission must
Source : ANI
