Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has sharply criticised Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on electoral “match-fixing” in the state. Fadnavis accused Gandhi of distorting facts and undermining the people’s mandate. He stated that Gandhi, who was “rejected by people,” is now rejecting their decision. The BJP leader condemned these allegations as an insult to Maharashtra’s citizens, asserting that neither he nor the people would forgive such claims.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, BJP Chief JP Nadda, and the Election Commission of India (ECI) also dismissed Gandhi’s assertions. In his op-ed in The Indian Express, Fadnavis argued that Gandhi’s article should be ignored as it aims to confuse rather than convince. He accused Gandhi of running a divisive campaign and criticised Congress for its past handling of election commissioner appointments.
Fadnavis Rebuts Allegations
Fadnavis countered Rahul Gandhi’s claims about “bogus voters,” explaining that the increase in young voters is consistent with past trends. He provided data showing over 26 lakh young voters and urged Gandhi to read a detailed letter from the Election Commission. According to Fadnavis, nothing unusual occurred regarding voter numbers in 2024.
The Chief Minister dismissed claims that last-minute high voter turnout favoured NDA candidates as “half-truths” and “laughable.” He cited examples where increased voter turnout benefited opposition candidates, challenging Gandhi’s narrative. Fadnavis also addressed accusations of concealing evidence, labelling them meaningless and harmful to public trust.
Shinde and Nadda Respond
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde responded to Gandhi’s claims by highlighting the Mahayuti alliance’s success in Maharashtra elections. Despite Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra passing through Maharashtra before the Lok Sabha elections, Shinde noted that people did not support him. He criticised false narratives about reservations and constitutional changes spread during this period.
BJP Chief JP Nadda accused Rahul Gandhi of creating fake narratives out of desperation following electoral defeats. In a five-point post on X, Nadda described how Gandhi allegedly lied about Maharashtra. He claimed that instead of introspection, Gandhi concocts conspiracies and defames institutions without evidence.
Election Commission’s Stance
The Election Commission termed Rahul Gandhi’s allegations regarding Maharashtra assembly polls as unsubstantiated and an affront to the rule of law. In a statement, the commission emphasised that Indian elections are conducted according to law and are globally recognised for their scale and accuracy.
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