Election Commission slams AAP’s ‘Malign tactics’ on Delhi poll eve
The Election Commission (EC) hit back at political parties Tuesday, accusing them of using pressure tactics to question its authority before the Delhi election. In a post on X, the EC said it had exercised restraint despite repeated attacks but would not be swayed. It defended its officials, stating they work within a legal framework to ensure fair elections.
The response came after AAP leaders Atishi and Arvind Kejriwal accused the EC of bias. Atishi alleged the poll body ignored BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri’s family violating the Model Code of Conduct in her Kalkaji constituency. She claimed police filed a case against her instead of acting on her complaint.
Atishi also clashed with Bidhuri in the past. Last year, he faced backlash for communal remarks in Parliament. More recently, he made derogatory comments about her father, sparking AAP’s outrage. He also mocked Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, comparing her cheek’s smoothness to road quality.
Meanwhile, Kejriwal escalated attacks on the EC and Delhi Police, accusing them of shielding BJP’s workers who allegedly distributed liquor and money for votes. He warned that anyone stopping them would face legal action. Last week, he wrote to Delhi’s top election officer, claiming BJP-linked goons attacked AAP workers in New Delhi, his constituency since 2013.
On Monday, Kejriwal launched his sharpest attack, suggesting EC Chief Rajiv Kumar might receive a post-retirement reward from the BJP. He urged Kumar not to “destroy democracy” for political gain. Kejriwal also slammed the EC for issuing notices over his claim that Haryana’s BJP government supplied “poisoned” Yamuna water to Delhi. The EC demanded proof or warned of legal action.
Delhi votes for 70 Assembly seats on Wednesday. Results will be declared three days later, as AAP aims for a third consecutive term.
