A collective of 272 distinguished public figures—including 16 retired judges, 123 former bureaucrats, 133 ex-military officers, and 14 former ambassadors—has issued a strongly worded open letter to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of employing “poisonous rhetoric” against vital democratic institutions, particularly the Election Commission of India (ECI). Released on Wednesday, the letter articulates significant concern regarding what the signatories view as a systematic effort to undermine the ECI’s integrity without substantial evidence. The group asserts, “Institutions are being targeted to hide political frustration,” highlighting Congress leaders’ repeated allegations that the Election Commission is colluding with the BJP.
The signatories, identifying themselves as “senior citizens of society,” caution that India’s democracy is under threat, not through violence, but through a continuous delegitimization of constitutional bodies. They state, “Some politicians are resorting to provocations and baseless accusations in their dramatic political tactics, without presenting any real policy alternatives.” The letter accuses Rahul Gandhi of persistently attacking the Election Commission and alleging—without formal complaints—that the ECI is involved in “vote theft.” This open letter suggests that Gandhi’s actions are part of a larger trend: questioning the achievements and bravery of the armed forces, challenging the impartiality of the judiciary, casting doubt on Parliament and its officials, and now directing “conspiratorial attacks” against the Election Commission.
The signatories argue that such claims are a strategic attempt to diminish voter confidence, especially after the Congress party’s repeated electoral failures. Labeling the allegations as emotionally charged yet empty, the group points out that the Election Commission has publicly explained the process of its electoral rolls revision, which is overseen by court-mandated protocols, including the inclusion of new names and the removal of ineligible voters. They assert, “Such rhetoric will not withstand scrutiny,” describing the criticism as political theater designed to disguise electoral disappointment. The group also criticizes Congress allies, left-leaning NGOs, and what they term “attention-seekers” for joining in the accusations.
They note that the Congress party’s position on the Election Commission varies based on electoral outcomes: “Ironically, in states where opposition parties govern, criticism of the ECI ceases. When results do not favor them, the Commission transforms into the villain.”