Elections

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s “Vote Chori” campaign in Bihar has encountered a significant hurdle following a key supporter’s reversal, raising questions about the campaign’s traction and local influence. The initiative, aimed at highlighting alleged electoral malpractices and mobilizing voters ahead of upcoming elections, had initially gained momentum among grassroots activists. However, the withdrawal of support by a prominent woman leader has triggered scrutiny over the campaign’s credibility and effectiveness in certain constituencies.

The Congress party has intensified its criticism of alleged electoral malpractice, releasing a video it claims demonstrates “vote chori” (vote theft). Party president Mallikarjun Kharge used the opportunity to call on citizens to actively raise their voices against what he described as an attack on democracy. The move signals the party’s intent to keep electoral integrity at the forefront of political discourse ahead of upcoming state and national polls.

In a significant demonstration against the Election Commission’s recent decisions, Rahul Gandhi, alongside prominent opposition figures, was detained during a protest. The political leaders voiced concerns over the perceived partiality and administrative lapses of the election authority ahead of the upcoming general elections. This event underscores the escalating tensions between the ruling establishment and opposition parties as India prepares for a pivotal electoral cycle.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal has pledged to return land allegedly taken from farmers if his party wins the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. Addressing a public gathering, Badal accused the current state government of failing to safeguard farmers’ interests and allowing unfair land acquisitions. He assured that, under an SAD administration, justice would be delivered to affected families, and agricultural rights would be protected.

At a high-stakes public rally in Bengaluru, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi intensified his party's scrutiny of India's electoral machinery, alleging serious voter fraud in Karnataka. Citing new data, he claimed it served as undeniable proof of what he termed a “crime against democracy.” The event, named the 'Vote Adhikar Rally,' marks a significant push by the Congress to highlight electoral irregularities ahead of upcoming polls.

Senior RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has criticized election authorities for serving him a notice regarding the possession of two Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPICs). Yadav claims the mistake lies with the poll officials and not with him. The issue has sparked a fresh round of political tension, with Yadav suggesting the move is an attempt to tarnish his reputation. He asserts that he has always cooperated with electoral norms and any duplication in records is due to administrative error.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh issued a sharp critique of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, asserting that the people of Bihar are prepared to deliver a clear electoral message to him and his party. Framing the upcoming polls as a referendum on performance and credibility, Singh accused the Congress of failing to address the core issues affecting the nation.

The Election Commission has issued a formal notice to senior Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav over allegations of possessing two voter ID cards registered in different constituencies. The development has stirred a political stir ahead of key state-level engagements. The poll body has requested a detailed explanation and supporting documentation from Yadav, prompting questions about electoral integrity and the enforcement of voter registration norms.

The recently released draft voter roll in Bihar has triggered concern across political and civil rights circles after preliminary reviews indicated disproportionately high exclusion rates, particularly among women and residents of Muslim-majority districts. As the state prepares for upcoming elections, this uneven representation threatens to undermine both democratic participation and electoral fairness. Observers have flagged inconsistencies in enrollment, gaps in field verification, and the potential marginalization of vulnerable communities.

India’s Election Commission has officially announced that the election for the post of Vice President of India will take place on September 9. The declaration initiates the formal electoral process for one of the country’s highest constitutional offices. The Vice President, who also serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, holds a crucial role in the Indian parliamentary framework. The announcement triggers the political machinery across parties to begin internal deliberations and candidate considerations.