Congress leader Kuldeep Rathore has launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging that democratic processes are under strain following his party’s electoral performance in West Bengal. His remarks have added to the ongoing political tension in the state in the aftermath of the recent results.
Speaking to reporters, Rathore claimed that the current political environment reflects serious concerns about the fairness and transparency of elections. He said that opposition parties are increasingly finding it difficult to operate on a level playing field, which he described as a “threat to democracy.”
“Democracy is under threat. After the Bengal results, serious questions must be asked about the role of the ruling party and the Election Commission,” Rathore said. He alleged that the electoral process is being influenced in ways that disadvantage opposition parties, although he did not provide specific evidence in his statement.
Rathore’s comments come at a time when multiple opposition leaders across the country have been raising concerns about electoral integrity, voter list accuracy, and the functioning of constitutional bodies responsible for conducting elections. The Congress party has repeatedly called for greater transparency in the electoral system and institutional reforms.
Criticising the BJP, Rathore accused the ruling party at the Centre of misusing power to gain political advantage. He also questioned the neutrality of the Election Commission, suggesting that its functioning must be reviewed to restore public confidence.
However, BJP leaders strongly rejected the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated. They argued that the Election Commission is an independent constitutional body and that elections in India are conducted in a free and fair manner under strict supervision.
Officials associated with the ECI have not issued any direct response to Rathore’s comments, but the Commission has in the past consistently maintained that it operates independently and ensures transparency in all electoral processes.
Political observers note that such exchanges have become increasingly common after major elections, with parties often blaming institutional mechanisms following unfavourable results.
Rathore’s statement is expected to further intensify the political debate between the Congress and the BJP, particularly over the credibility of electoral institutions and the broader question of democratic fairness in the country.
