Patna: A group of 272 prominent public figures—including 16 retired judges, 123 former bureaucrats, 133 ex-military officers and 14 former ambassadors—has written a sharply critical open letter to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of launching “poisonous rhetoric” against key democratic institutions, most notably the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The letter, circulated on Wednesday, expresses deep concern over what the signatories describe as a deliberate attempt to cast doubt on the ECI’s integrity without evidence. “Institutions are being targeted to hide political frustration,” the group writes, noting that Congress leaders have repeatedly alleged that the Election Commission is acting in collusion with the BJP.
‘Democracy Under Rhetorical Attack’
Describing themselves as “senior citizens of society”, the signatories warn that India’s democracy is facing an assault not through force but via constant delegitimisation of constitutional bodies.
“Some politicians are resorting to provocations and baseless accusations in their dramatic political tactics, without presenting any real policy alternatives,” the letter states.
The group accuses Rahul Gandhi of persistently attacking the Election Commission and claiming—without filing formal complaints—that the ECI is complicit in “vote theft”.
After Judiciary and Armed Forces, Now the Election Commission: Letter
The open letter claims this is part of a broader pattern:
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questioning the achievements and courage of the armed forces
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casting doubt on the impartiality of the judiciary
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raising suspicion about Parliament and its officials
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and now directing “conspiratorial attacks” towards the Election Commission
The signatories argue that such assertions represent a strategic attempt to erode voter confidence, particularly following repeated electoral setbacks for the Congress.
‘Allegations Without Evidence’
Calling the allegations emotionally charged but hollow, the group notes that the Election Commission has publicly detailed the methodology of its electoral rolls revision—monitored under court-mandated protocols, including the addition of new names and removal of ineligible voters.
“Such rhetoric will not stand up to scrutiny,” the letter asserts, describing the criticism as political theatre crafted to mask electoral disappointment.
The group also targets Congress allies, Left-leaning NGOs and what it calls “attention-seekers” for joining the chorus of allegations.
‘When They Win, the ECI Is Fair; When They Lose, It Becomes the Villain’
The letter claims that Congress’s stance on the Election Commission fluctuates depending on electoral outcomes.
“Ironically, in states where opposition parties form the government, criticism of the ECI ends. When results do not favour them, the Commission becomes a villain,” the group writes.
