The Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has formally sought clarification from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following his allegations that a woman had voted twice in recent elections. The notice, issued on Sunday, requests Gandhi to furnish documentary evidence to substantiate his claims, as a preliminary inquiry by the CEO’s office found discrepancies in the documents presented by the Congress leader.
Gandhi had showcased certain papers during a press conference in New Delhi last week, asserting that one, Shakun Rani, had cast two votes. However, the CEO's preliminary probe revealed that the tick-marked document cited by Gandhi was not issued by the polling officer, and Shakun Rani herself denied voting more than once.
"You have also stated that as per the records given by the polling officer, Shakun Rani had voted twice. On inquiry, Rani has stated that she has voted only once and not twice, as alleged by you," the notice read.
The CEO’s office emphasised the need for authenticated documents to pursue a detailed investigation into the alleged incident. The official communication urged Gandhi to submit the relevant evidence promptly to facilitate a comprehensive inquiry.
Earlier on Saturday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) urged Rahul Gandhi to either sign a declaration backing his vote theft allegations or apologise to the nation for making “false” claims. The Congress leadership had amplified Gandhi’s charge of ‘vote chori’ in multiple states, prompting the poll panel to renew its demand.
A day after a public exchange of accusations between Gandhi and the Election Commission over alleged vote theft in at least three states, officials reiterated the need for a signed declaration from the Leader of Opposition to substantiate his claims.
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