Congress Leaders Rally in Patna to Counter Allegations of Vote Theft

The Congress party convened its first Working Committee session in Bihar since Independence, gathering at Sadaqat Ashram in Patna on Wednesday. The meeting, which began at 10:30 am, is focused on strategizing for the upcoming Assembly elections while intensifying criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over alleged “vote chori,” or vote theft.

Leading the charge are key figures including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. This extended Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting includes permanent and special invitees, state chief ministers, Congress Committee presidents, and Congress Legislature Party leaders. According to sources, several resolutions are anticipated to be passed that are specifically aimed at the Bihar polls.

Kharge kicked off the proceedings by unfurling the party flag at the state headquarters. The discussions are designed to formulate a comprehensive strategy for the Assembly elections, address ongoing seat-sharing talks within the Mahagathbandhan alliance, and place pressure on the Election Commission regarding its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Bihar.

In the lead-up to the meeting, Gandhi has been vocal about the alleged discrepancies in the electoral process. He recently conducted a “Voter Adhikar Yatra” aimed at raising awareness of these issues. This initiative has reportedly invigorated Congress workers in Bihar. Just days before the CWC meeting, Gandhi held a press conference where he accused Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar of protecting individuals who allegedly undermine the democratic process.

Gandhi backed his claims with data from a Karnataka Assembly constituency, asserting that votes from Congress supporters were being systematically removed. The CWC is expected to issue a strong message regarding these allegations and the perceived failings of the Election Commission, reflecting a growing concern within the party about maintaining electoral integrity.

As the meeting progresses, Congress leaders are expected to rally support and unify their efforts in the face of significant political challenges. The party aims to leverage its historical presence in Bihar, engaging with voters and addressing their concerns ahead of the crucial elections.