Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded sharply to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s claims of discrepancies in the state’s voter lists. Gandhi had alleged that over 3.9 million new names were added to the voter rolls before the local elections last year, a figure he suggested was unusually high compared to previous years.
Fadnavis dismissed these allegations, suggesting that Gandhi was attempting to preemptively justify an anticipated electoral defeat. He remarked, “Rahul Gandhi is doing cover firing as he knows that after the February 8, Delhi Election results, his party will be nowhere in Delhi.” Fadnavis further advised Gandhi to introspect on his party’s performance rather than consoling himself with “lies,” emphasizing that without self-reflection, the Congress party’s revival would remain elusive.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has addressed the concerns raised, stating that it would respond in writing to Gandhi’s queries. Gandhi has indicated that the opposition parties might consider judicial recourse if their concerns are not adequately addressed.
This exchange underscores the escalating tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress party, highlighting the contentious nature of electoral processes and the scrutiny of democratic institutions in India.