Congress Alleges ‘Vote Chori’ After Bihar Election Defeat
Following a crushing defeat in the Bihar by-elections, the Congress party has reignited claims of “vote chori” (vote theft), accusing the ruling NDA of electoral manipulation. The party failed to win any seats in Rupauli and Tarari, prompting its leaders to allege EVM tampering and voter suppression—a narrative they’ve pushed since the 2019 general elections.
Congress Accuses NDA of Electoral Fraud
The BJP-JD(U) alliance swept the July 13 by-polls, strengthening their hold on Bihar. Congress leaders, including Jairam Ramesh, took to social media, claiming the NDA “stole” the mandate. Ramesh tweeted: “The ‘vote chori’ machinery is active under NDA’s watch.” However, the party has yet to provide concrete evidence, leading critics to dismiss the allegations as sour grapes.
NDA Counters: ‘Congress is a Sore Loser’
BJP and JD(U) leaders swiftly rejected the accusations. Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary said, “Congress blames EVMs every time they lose. Voters rejected them.” JD(U)’s Neeraj Kumar added, “If EVMs were rigged, why did opposition win in Punjab and Karnataka?”
Is ‘Vote Chori’ a Diversion Tactiс?
Analysts suggest Congress is using the controversy to mask its organizational failures. Political expert Ajay Kumar noted, “Blaming EVMs is easier than fixing weak grassroots connections.” Even party insiders admit the need for better ground strategies instead of excuses.
Election Integrity: A Recurring Debate
Opposition parties like AAP and TMC have also questioned EVM reliability, but the Election Commission maintains strict safeguards, including VVPAT checks. In Bihar, traditional issues like booth capturing have been bigger concerns than EVM doubts.
What’s Next for Congress in Bihar?
With the 2025 state elections approaching, Congress risks being sidelined by allies like RJD. While ‘vote chori’ rhetoric may rally its base, experts argue the party must address leadership gaps and voter disconnect to recover.
Key Takeaway:
The NDA’s Bihar win reinforces its dominance, while Congress’s allegations appear more like desperation than a credible challenge. In Indian politics, excuses don’t win elections—strong strategies do.
