Rahul Gandhi Alleges 2024 Election Was 'Rigged', Promises 'Atom Bomb' of Proof
Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has alleged that the 2024 Lok Sabha election was "rigged" and that the election system is "dead". Speaking at a legal conclave, he claimed to have "100 per cent proof" of electoral malpractice, which he called an "atom bomb" of data that would be released soon. His allegations, which the Election Commission has refuted, question the integrity of India's electoral process and institutions, sparking a major political controversy at the national level.
Unpacked:
Rahul Gandhi claims to possess "100 percent proof" of electoral malpractice affecting over 80 Lok Sabha seats and refers to this evidence as an "atom bomb" of data. He has promised to release this data in the coming days, but as of now, no specific details or documents have been made public.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has categorically dismissed Rahul Gandhi’s allegations as “baseless,” reaffirming the legitimacy of the 2024 electoral process. The ECI stated that Gandhi has not responded to their invitations to discuss his claims and maintains that the elections were conducted fairly and transparently.
Rahul Gandhi’s claims have triggered a major political controversy. Congress leaders and some opposition figures support his stance, while the ruling BJP and its allies defend the Election Commission and denounce the allegations. The opposition remains divided, with some parties calling for an investigation, while others question the timing and motives of the claims.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, the BJP won 240 seats, falling short of the 272-seat majority but forming a government with its NDA allies. Gandhi alleges rigging in 70–100 seats, suggesting that without this, the BJP would not have been able to form a government. He also says his suspicions began with earlier state elections, particularly in Gujarat and Maharashtra.