Rahul Gandhi Claims Recent Lok Sabha Elections Were Not Conducted on Level Playing Field

Washington: During his visit to the United States, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the integrity of the general elections held in India earlier this summer, claiming they were not conducted on a level playing field. Speaking at Georgetown University, Gandhi asserted that the elections have fundamentally undermined the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, expressed that the coalition that propelled Modi to power is now fractured, stating, “It’s not just the prime minister; it’s deeper than that. The coalition that brought Mr. Modi to power has collapsed right down the middle.” He predicted that this breakdown would make it challenging for the ruling coalition in future elections, as the perception of Modi as a leader serving the interests of the Indian people has diminished.

In his remarks, Gandhi claimed, “I don’t see it as a free election. I see it as a heavily controlled election,” and suggested that in a fair electoral environment, the BJP would struggle to secure even 240 seats. He emphasized that the party enjoys a significant financial advantage, which, according to him, distorts the electoral process.

Gandhi criticized the Election Commission, accusing it of facilitating Modi’s agenda through a meticulously organized campaign. He pointed out that the Congress party faced considerable challenges, including frozen bank accounts, which hampered their ability to compete effectively.

Reflecting on Modi’s psychological state during the campaign, Gandhi noted, “Halfway through, Prime Minister Modi didn’t think he would get anywhere near 300 or 400 seats. There was an internal recognition of trouble.” He elaborated that Modi’s previous political experience, which lacked significant adversity, did not prepare him for the challenges he faced in the recent elections.

Gandhi concluded by stating that the perception of Modi as a unique and unassailable leader has been fundamentally altered. His comments were made during a broader engagement with the Indian diaspora, where he also planned to meet U.S. lawmakers and officials to discuss various issues.