Gehlot Criticizes EC's Reaction to Kharge's Letter as 'Inappropriate'

In a recent development that has stirred the political landscape, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot criticized the Election Commission's response to Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge's concerns regarding the delay in releasing voter turnout figures for the initial two phases of polling. Gehlot expressed his dismay on Saturday, highlighting the Commission's reaction as "completely inappropriate and unwarranted."

The controversy began when Kharge, in a letter to INDIA bloc partners, voiced apprehensions over the Election Commission's handling of voter turnout data. The Commission, on Friday, retorted by labeling Kharge's letter as an attempt to "push a biased narrative under the guise of seeking clarifications." Gehlot, taking to X (formerly Twitter), criticized the tone of the Election Commission's reply, suggesting it mirrored more a political entity than a constitutional institution.

Gehlot's critique extended to the Commission's perceived partisanship, accusing it of siding with one party and thereby sowing seeds of doubt among the electorate. He further lamented that the Election Commission's stance could tarnish its image and undermine public trust in this pivotal democratic process.

Adding to the controversy, Kharge pointed out the selective attention of the Election Commission. He was taken aback by the Commission's decision to address his letter while neglecting numerous complaints lodged directly with it. Among these were allegations of communal and casteist remarks made by leaders of the ruling party, which Kharge argued were met with no urgency from the poll authority.

Kharge's correspondence with the chief election commissioner and other commissioners underscored his astonishment at their approach. He acknowledged his reservations about the language used by the Commission but chose not to dwell on it, attributing it to the pressures faced by the authority. However, he criticized the Commission for its advisory tone, which he perceived as veiled threats against citizens exercising their right to question.

This episode has cast a spotlight on the Election Commission of India, raising questions about its impartiality and responsiveness to electoral grievances. As this situation unfolds, it underscores the delicate balance between electoral authorities and political entities in ensuring a fair and transparent democratic process.