1. CEOs Demand Proof and Sworn Statement
On 11 August 2025, Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Haryana issued formal notices to Rahul Gandhi, urging him to provide a signed declaration under oath and relevant particulars to substantiate allegations of voter fraud during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. A 10-day deadline has been imposed for response. The Times of India+2The Times of India+2
2. Karnataka CEO Seeks Specific Documents
The Karnataka CEO, V Anbu Kumar, requested Rahul Gandhi to submit documentary proof, including details of alleged duplicate voting by Shakun Rani in Mahadevapura, Bengaluru. The claim is under scrutiny as preliminary findings show the voter cast only one vote. The tick-marked document presented was not from a polling officer. The Times of IndiaThe Economic Times
3. Maharashtra & Haryana Also Demanding Evidence
The CEOs of Maharashtra and Haryana have similarly demanded that Rahul Gandhi provide a signed affidavit and voter specifics—names, part numbers, serial numbers—to initiate investigations and possible legal action under relevant electoral laws. The Times of IndiaThe Economic Times
4. Declaration Issued Under Electoral Rules
These notices have been issued in accordance with Rule 20(3)(b) of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, which allows electoral authorities to require evidence under oath. Violations can attract penalties, including fines or imprisonment. The Times of India+1
5. Political Response: Gehlot Calls Demand ‘Absurd’
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot criticized the notices, calling them “utterly absurd” and suggesting they protect institutional image over democratic debate. He argued Rahul Gandhi had already disclosed publicly the alleged discrepancies and that the demand for an affidavit was inconsistent. The Times of India
6. Stakes High for Election Integrity
The ongoing exchange underscores rising tension between election institutions and political leaders. While authorities demand formal proof, the opposition argues public disclosure should suffice, raising broader questions about electoral transparency and accountability. The Economic TimesThe Times of India
7. Rahul Gandhi Yet to Respond Publicly
No official response has yet been recorded from Rahul Gandhi. While public pressure mounted, the 10-day window now sets a timeline for the Opposition leader to step in with evidence—or risk legal and reputational repercussions. The Times of India+1
8. Implications for Election Oversight and Democratic Norms
The coordinated notices across states may signal enhanced vigilance ahead of future elections. They also reflect an assertive posture by electoral bodies in demanding accountability, setting a precedent for how grievance claims must be substantiated under Indian electoral law
