NEW DELHI — BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla has criticised the Congress party and senior leader Kapil Sibal over their remarks on the electoral process, accusing them of making excuses and questioning the fairness of elections only when results do not go in their favour.
Speaking in Delhi, Poonawalla said that voting is currently taking place in several states, and at such a time, the opposition is raising doubts instead of supporting the democratic process. He alleged that Congress leaders are attempting to create confusion among voters by making statements that question the integrity of elections.
He pointed out that similar concerns were raised by the Congress party after elections in states like Maharashtra and Haryana, where the party did not perform as expected. According to him, the pattern shows that whenever the opposition faces electoral setbacks, it tends to question the system rather than introspect.
Poonawalla further stated that what is more concerning is that these allegations are now being made even before elections are concluded, suggesting that opposition leaders are already preparing grounds to challenge the results. He said that this approach undermines the credibility of democratic institutions.
The BJP spokesperson emphasised that India’s electoral process is robust, transparent, and conducted under the supervision of the Election Commission, which ensures free and fair elections. He said that raising baseless doubts about the system can weaken public trust in democratic institutions.
He also accused the opposition of adopting a selective approach when it comes to accepting election results. According to him, when the Congress wins elections in states such as Karnataka and Telangana, it considers the process fair and credible. However, when it loses in states like Maharashtra, Haryana, or Delhi, it begins to question the same system.
Poonawalla described this as a double standard, stating that democracy cannot function properly if political parties accept results only when they are favourable. He said that all parties must respect the outcome of elections, regardless of whether they win or lose.
He added that elections are the foundation of democracy, and it is the responsibility of all political stakeholders to ensure that the process is respected and upheld. He said that spreading doubts without evidence can harm the democratic environment.
The BJP leader also said that the opposition’s repeated allegations indicate a lack of confidence, suggesting that they are aware of their weakening position among voters. He claimed that such statements are an attempt to divert attention from real issues and the party’s performance.
Poonawalla urged opposition leaders to focus on constructive politics, engage with voters, and present their vision for governance instead of making allegations. He said that healthy competition in elections should be based on policies and performance, not on questioning institutions.
Observers note that debates over the fairness of elections have become a recurring theme in Indian politics, especially during closely contested polls. Statements like those made by Poonawalla reflect the ongoing political tensions between ruling and opposition parties.
He reiterated that the Election Commission plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of elections and that its processes are designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness. He said that any concerns should be raised through proper channels and supported by evidence.
Poonawalla concluded by expressing confidence that the people of India will continue to participate actively in elections and uphold democratic values, regardless of political debates.
His remarks highlight the ongoing political exchange over the credibility of elections, with the BJP defending the system and accusing the opposition of raising selective and premature concerns about the electoral process.
