New Delhi: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has issued a sharp warning against mounting pressures on the Election Commission of India (ECI), stressing the urgent need to safeguard its independence to uphold democracy. Speaking on National Voters’ Day, he declared it a collective responsibility to ensure institutions like the ECI remain unbiased amid recent challenges.
In a pointed post on X (formerly Twitter), Kharge highlighted how “vote chori” (vote theft) and unplanned Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls undermine the nation’s democratic fabric. He asserted, “The people of India deserve free, fair, and fearless elections with clean electoral rolls and a level playing field.” Kharge framed Voters’ Day as a reminder that citizens’ voices shape the nation’s destiny, calling for vigilance against institutional erosion.
Established on January 25, 1950— a day before India became a republic — the poll panel has overseen various electons for over seven decades. Celebrated annually since 2010 as National Voters’ Day, the occasion promotes voter awareness nationwide. Kharge’s remarks echo ongoing opposition concerns over ECI decisions during recent state elections, including allegations of selective enforcement and delays in voter list updates.
Political analysts view Kharge’s statement as a preemptive salvo ahead of potential 2026 assembly polls in key states. “Sustained pressure on the ECI risks eroding public trust,” Kharge warned. He urged all stakeholders to protect its integrity so “democracy does not merely survive, but truly thrives.” The Congress has long criticized executive interference in the workings of the ECI, citing past disputes over electoral bonds and VVPAT transparency.
The BJP dismissed the comments as “election rhetoric,” with its spokespersons reaffirming the ECI’s autonomy under constitutional mandates. As campaigns intensify, Kharge’s call echoes with civil society groups advocating electoral reforms.
