EC Should Have Ordered Probe Instead of ‘Shouting’ at Rahul: Ex-CEC Quraishi on ‘Vote Theft’ Charges
New Delhi, Sept 14: Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) S Y Quraishi has strongly criticized the Election Commission (EC) for its response to Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s allegations of “vote theft,” stating that instead of dismissing him with “objectionable” language, the EC should have immediately ordered a probe. In an interview with PTI ahead of his book Democracy’s Heartland launch, Quraishi said Gandhi’s remarks, though steeped in political rhetoric such as calling the alleged irregularities a “hydrogen bomb,” reflect serious complaints that demand proper investigation.
He noted that the EC’s role is not only to be fair but also to appear fair, and that probing Gandhi’s allegations would have reinforced public trust. “Rahul Gandhi is not just an individual but the Leader of Opposition, representing millions. Asking him to file an affidavit and threatening consequences was undignified. A probe was the correct course,” Quraishi said.
Quraishi expressed dismay over the EC’s handling of the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, warning that it has “opened a Pandora’s box” and risked eroding confidence in the electoral process. He pointed out that while Aadhaar has been mandated under court pressure, the inexplicable exclusion of the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC)—an EC-issued document—from voter list requirements undermines decades of progress in roll accuracy.
During his tenure as CEC from 2010–2012, Quraishi said he prioritized giving opposition parties easy access to EC officials, recognizing their vulnerability compared to ruling parties. He lamented that today opposition leaders must approach the Supreme Court repeatedly to be heard, which, he said, is damaging to the institution’s credibility.
On Gandhi’s allegations of “vote chori” in Karnataka and other states, Quraishi stressed that the issue should be investigated thoroughly, not just for Gandhi’s satisfaction but for the faith of the entire nation. “If citizens lose confidence in electoral processes, democracy itself suffers,” he warned.
Reiterating his concern, Quraishi said the EC’s current approach is “buying trouble” and risks weakening the institution. Judicial oversight, he argued, should not be the only safeguard; the EC must itself embody accountability and impartiality.
