Sat Aug 02 09:25:07 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for alleging that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is complicit in “vote theft” in Bihar. Singh challenged Gandhi to reveal his supposed “atom bomb of evidence” while reminding him of past failed promises. He defended the ECI’s integrity and accused Gandhi’s party of past anti-democratic actions. Singh also praised Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership for the state’s progress.

**News Article:**

**Singh Slams Gandhi’s ‘Vote Theft’ Claims, Defends Election Commission Integrity**

**Patna, India – August 2, 2025** – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today delivered a sharp rebuke to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his allegations of “vote theft” by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.

Speaking at a media event in Patna, Singh challenged Gandhi’s claim of possessing an “atom bomb of evidence,” urging him to release it immediately. “If it is so, he should detonate it at once. He should just ensure that he is himself out of harm’s way,” Singh stated. He also referenced Gandhi’s past pronouncements that failed to materialize.

The Defence Minister firmly defended the ECI, an institution he characterized as having an “unquestionable reputation for integrity.” He insisted the ECI is taking all necessary measures to ensure free and fair elections in Bihar, adding that such “frivolous statements” are unbecoming of the Leader of the Opposition.

Singh further reminded Gandhi of the Congress party’s own history, accusing them of attempting to “murder democracy” during the Emergency in 1975.

The BJP leader also lauded the contributions of current Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, highlighting the state’s positive transformation under his two-decade leadership. “Under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, Bihar is no longer seen as a basket case,” Singh said, noting international recognition of the state’s progress.

The Bihar Assembly elections are seen as a crucial test for both the ruling NDA alliance and the opposition INDIA bloc, with Singh framing the election as a choice between progress and a return to past problems.

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