"Stealing Votes": Tejashwi Yadav Demands Fresh Polls in Bihar and Bengal
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav calls for fresh elections in Bihar and Bengal, alleging fraudulent polls and a breakdown of law and order.
In a scathing attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav has accused the party of maintaining power through fraudulent means. Claiming that the opposition has unified to "save democracy," the former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar has demanded that fresh elections be conducted in both Bihar and West Bengal, alleging that previous electoral processes were compromised.
Allegations of Electoral Fraud and SIR Concerns
Speaking to ANI, Yadav raised serious concerns regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He suggested that the processes used in Bihar were tested before being rolled out nationally, implying a systemic manipulation of the voting process. According to the RJD leader, the elections held in Bihar and West Bengal were "fraudulent," leading to his demand for a complete re-poll in these states.
Yadav further emphasized a long-standing demand from his party, stating: "We have wanted from the beginning that elections should be held on ballot paper."
"A Reign of Monsters": Law and Order Crisis in Bihar
Beyond electoral concerns, Yadav launched a fierce critique of the current administration in Bihar, describing a total collapse of the state's legal and social framework. He accused the government of failing to control criminal elements, which he claims now operate with impunity.
- Criminal Influence: Yadav alleged that criminals have gained unchecked influence across the state.
- Governance Failure: He claimed that a "reign of monsters" has been established, leading to a complete breakdown of law and order.
- Economic Hardship: The leader also blamed the ruling administration for fostering economic difficulties for the common citizen.
The INDIA Bloc's Nationwide Protest Plan
Yadav's remarks follow a significant announcement by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge regarding a massive mobilization by the INDIA bloc. The opposition is preparing for a "Save Democracy March" to be held at the district level from October 2 to October 8.
The protest movement is part of a broader strategy to challenge what the opposition describes as the weakening of national institutions. Key upcoming actions include:
- March to the Election Commission: Opposition MPs are scheduled to march to the Election Commission on October 6 to voice their grievances.
- Meeting with the President: In the second week of October, opposition leaders intend to meet President Droupadi Murmu to raise urgent concerns regarding institutional integrity.
Kharge has specifically accused the Election Commission of being influenced by the central government, a sentiment echoed by Yadav's claims regarding the manipulation of electoral laws and rolls to benefit the ruling party.