Rahul Gandhi Targets Gyanesh Kumar, Alleges Election Match-Fixing as ECI Clarifies

The Election Commission of India has refuted allegations of internal dissent, affirming that all decisions regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls were taken unanimously by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi. Following a meeting at Nirvachan Sadan, the poll panel presented a united front and announced key operational decisions. The deadline for filing claims under the SIR process has been extended to 30 October in Delhi and to 12 October in Maharashtra to assist voters facing procedural issues. Additionally, Booth Level Officers in Goa have been instructed to conduct door-to-door visits to reach left-out voters and assist with pending documentation. The Commission maintained that the SIR exercise fully complied with Supreme Court directives and involved standard internal deliberations rather than disagreement. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party endorsed the clarification, dismissing opposition allegations regarding friction within the constitutional body.

Telugu Desam Party Parliamentary Party leader Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu criticised the Congress party for constantly questioning election outcomes and placing blame on institutions. Addressing allegations made against the Election Commission of India, he questioned, "If it is so, how, how did you win the election Kerala?" He maintained that the opposition party has a habit of passing on blame whenever it faces an electoral defeat. Reaffirming confidence in institutional integrity, he expressed certainty that the Election Commission of India will address all queries raised by opposition parties in a clear manner to ensure no doubts persist among voters.

The Election Commission of India has refuted allegations of internal discord, presenting a united front following a key meeting at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alongside Election Commissioners Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr Vivek Joshi, clarified that major decisions, including the Special Intensive Revision across states and union territories, were taken unanimously. The commission noted that orders concerning SIR in Bihar, West Bengal, and other regions received unanimous approval and referenced Supreme Court backing. Officials also addressed media reports alleging centralization of power and internal objections, confirming extensions for SIR processes to assist voters.

The Bharatiya Janata Party addressed claims made against the Election Commission, stating that allegations peddled by the opposition have been proven untrue. Referring to an Indian Express report and a photograph showing all three election commissioners seated together issuing a press release, the party highlighted that the truth is now evident and the narrative against the poll body stands discredited.