Wed Apr 09 06:56:16 UTC 2025: ## Congress Accuses BJP of Electoral Fraud, Demands Return to Ballot Papers

**Ahmedabad, April 9, 2025** – Addressing the Indian National Congress’ AICC session in Ahmedabad, party president Mallikarjun Kharge launched a scathing attack on the BJP, alleging widespread electoral fraud and a systematic dismantling of Indian democracy. Kharge specifically cited the recent Maharashtra Assembly elections, claiming the BJP’s victory was achieved through unprecedented fraudulent practices. He called for a return to ballot papers from Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), arguing that the current system favors the ruling party.

“The Maharashtra election was a fraud,” Kharge declared, pointing to the BJP’s near-sweep of the seats. He also criticized the government’s handling of Parliament, alleging suppression of opposition voices and a focus on divisive issues rather than addressing the needs of the people. He cited instances where the opposition was prevented from raising crucial issues, including the Manipur violence and the imposition of US tariffs.

Kharge further accused the BJP of selling off government assets to benefit crony capitalists, undermining constitutional institutions, and eroding SC, ST, and OBC reservations through privatization. He also condemned the BJP and RSS for fanning communal tensions and exploiting historical issues for political gain. He highlighted the recent incident where a BJP leader purified a Ram temple after a Congress leader’s participation in a consecration ceremony as an example of the party’s anti-Dalit sentiment.

The Congress president also advocated for a nationwide caste census and criticized the government’s economic policies, particularly the increase in excise duty on fuel and LPG prices. The AICC session, themed “Nyaypath: Sankalp, Samarpan aur Sangharsh,” is expected to formally present the Congress party’s social, political, and economic vision. The session is attended by over 1700 party members. The event follows a day after an extended Congress Working Committee meeting to finalize the session’s agenda. Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi also attended a prayer meeting at the Sabarmati Ashram earlier this week.

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