Former Himachal Minister Criticizes BJP for Electoral Misconduct

Thakur Kaul Singh, a senior Congress leader, has accused the BJP-led Central government of undermining democratic institutions and manipulating the Election Commission for political gain. He demands an impartial investigation into alleged electoral fraud and advocates for a return to ballot paper voting to restore public confidence. Singh highlights concerns over the disenfranchisement of voters and calls for accountability in the electoral process, emphasizing the need for transparency and integrity in democracy. As political tensions rise, the opposition seeks to address these issues at the highest levels of government.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 10, 2026, 16:17 IST

Allegations Against the Central Government

Munish Sood
Mandi
Thakur Kaul Singh, a senior Congress figure and former minister in Himachal Pradesh, has launched a fierce critique of the BJP-led Central government, claiming that democratic institutions are under siege. He accused the ruling party of manipulating the Election Commission for its political gain and called for a thorough investigation into alleged electoral fraud and the reinstatement of ballot paper voting.

Concerns Over Democratic Integrity

During a press briefing in Mandi, Kaul Singh expressed his belief that the integrity of democratic institutions has been increasingly compromised since Narendra Modi took office as Prime Minister. He alleged that central investigative bodies, such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Income Tax Department, and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), are being weaponized against political adversaries, especially during election periods.

Criticism of the Election Commission

Focusing on Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Kaul Singh raised concerns about the Election Commission's decisions, which he claims have cast doubt on its independence and credibility. He accused the BJP leadership of exploiting the Commission to further its political agenda, thereby undermining the electoral process to ensure victories for the ruling party.

Voting Rights Under Threat

Kaul Singh highlighted issues surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that this process has disenfranchised many voters. He referenced opposition claims that approximately 12 to 13 crore voters may have been unjustly removed from the rolls, which he described as a significant violation of democratic rights.

Call for Accountability and Transparency

He questioned the methods used for revising electoral rolls, noting similar concerns in states like Bihar and West Bengal. Kaul Singh insisted that every eligible citizen should have the right to vote and that any irregularities in the revision process warrant an independent investigation.

Demand for Fair Investigations and Ballot Paper Voting

The Congress leader urged for an impartial inquiry into the allegations of vote theft and reiterated the need to revert to ballot paper voting to restore public trust in the electoral system. He accused the government of trying to stifle democratic dissent and emphasized that citizens have the right to peacefully protest against perceived injustices.

Opposition's Actions and National Concerns

The press conference in Mandi coincides with a growing national political clash regarding the Election Commission's operations and the electoral roll revisions. Leaders from the opposition bloc recently met with President Droupadi Murmu to voice their concerns about alleged vote theft and the conduct of the Chief Election Commissioner. They have called for Gyanesh Kumar's resignation and judicial review of their claims, while the Election Commission and the BJP have denied any political motivations behind the revision process.

The Need for Electoral Integrity

Kaul Singh emphasized that maintaining electoral integrity is crucial for democracy's survival, asserting that allegations of voter disenfranchisement should not be dismissed as mere political rhetoric. He called for a system where every eligible voter can exercise their right to vote without fear or discrimination and demanded accountability from those overseeing elections.