Allegations of Vote Fraud Stir Controversy in Maharashtra Elections

NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad has accused the Election Commission of failing to address queries raised by opposition leader Rahul Gandhi regarding purported vote fraud in the Maharashtra 2024 assembly elections. Speaking at a press conference in Akola, Awhad contended that the elections were rigged to favor the Mahayuti alliance, who allegedly came to power through vote theft.

Awhad questioned the sudden rise of 76 lakh votes in the last hour of polling in Maharashtra. He indicated that the Election Commission's prior recognition of breakaway factions casts doubt on its impartiality, especially after Gandhi's allegations of 'vote chori' and similar irregularities in Karnataka.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar issued an ultimatum to Gandhi, demanding an oath-bound declaration within a week to substantiate his claims, failing which his allegations would be dismissed. Awhad also touched on historical and cultural debates, suggesting V D Savarkar supported the two-nation theory and defending the freedom of dietary choice amid civic bans on meat sales on Independence Day.