KKN Gurugram Desk | In a politically charged statement on June 8, 2025, Bihar’s Leader of the Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, supported Rahul Gandhi’s allegations of election tampering. Gandhi had warned that techniques used in Maharashtra—such as voter-roll manipulation—could be replicated in Bihar’s upcoming elections. Yadav remarked this accusation is “absolutely correct” and pointed fingers at the Election Commission of India (ECI), claiming it functioned under governmental influence in the previous Bihar polls.

Rahul Gandhi’s Allegations: Setting the Stage

During a visit to Bihar last week, Rahul Gandhi raised concerns about irregularities in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, citing:

• Tampered voter lists

• Unusual surges in voter turnout

• Fears that such tactics could be repeated in Bihar Assembly elections .

He argued this wasn’t about theoretical speculation but practical evidence, urging BJP-ruled areas to curb electoral malpractice.

 Tejashwi Yadav’s Strong Response

Speaking to the media in Patna, Tejashwi defended Rahu Gandhi’s statement:

“Rahul Gandhi’s concerns are absolutely right. Review the ECI’s performance in the last Bihar assembly polls. They halted vote-counting in broad daylight, then resumed at night after interruptions—releasing multiple press statements to defend their actions. If the ECI is operating like a BJP government cell, it’s understandable for people to question the process.”

Yadav’s criticism unveils deeper concerns:

1. Morning vote-count stoppage

2. Night-time resumption

3. Press conferences explaining odd delays

He claims this indicates a lack of independence on the ECI’s part.

 Context: ECI’s Role & Allegations of Bias

Historically, the Election Commission of India has been praised for conducting free and fair elections. However, in recent times:

• Opposition parties have questioned ECI’s impartiality.

• Incidents during Bihar elections sparked significant criticism, with Tejashwi pointing to:

  • Sudden counting stoppages

  • Media statements justifying questionable moves

  • The ECI acting under the influence of the central ruling party

This has created a political and ethical dilemma around its autonomy.

 Political Implications in Bihar

Tejashwi’s backing of Rahul Gandhi’s remarks adds fuel to anti-ECI and anti-BJP narratives:

• The Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) now has a unified front regarding ECI criticism.

• It sets the tone for pre-election scrutiny in Bihar—enhancing citizen vigilance.

• It encourages political and civil society groups to advocate for tighter electoral safeguards.

 Election Law Experts Weigh In

Some constitutional scholars have voiced concern:

• Justice (ret.) Leila Seth previously stated, “Any delay or shift in vote counting must be documented and justified transparently to maintain public trust.”

Tejashwi’s allegations amplify calls for:

• Independent judicial oversight during vote counting

• Legal safeguards against irregular counting once operations begin

 Historical Comparisons & International Examples

Delayed counting and nighttime vote resumptions are uncommon in democracies.

• In the US or the UK, counting continues without interruption, and any closes trigger mandatory recounts.

• In 2016, the US presidential election, recounts occurred under strict legal oversight, supported by clear legislative frameworks.

Comparatively, the ECI’s opaque handling of the Bihar count sparked fears of back-channel interventions.

What’s Next? 2025 Bihar Polls Under Microscope

1. ECI’s Preparedness: Likely affirmation of more live-streamed counting and administrative transparency

2. Rahul’s National Echo: Gandhi’s warnings resonate across alliances—prompting central-level harnessing of the issue

3. Opposition Strategy: Mahagathbandhan may campaign on an “Election Freedoms” platform

4. Civil Society Action: NGOs and watchdogs may petition for legal guarantees in counting phases

By supporting Rahul Gandhi’s claims about election tampering, Tejashwi Yadav ignites deeper scrutiny of Election Commission functioning in Bihar. His position appeals to democratic aspiration and raises critical questions about transparency, legal accountability, and voter trust, shaping the conversation for the 2025 polls.