The All India Congress Committee (AICC) today commenced a nationwide signature campaign aimed at collecting 5 crore signatures. This initiative targets the President of India over the alleged electoral irregularities dubbed as “Vote Chori.” AICC General Secretary G.A. Mir announced this campaign during a press conference in Omoh, Verinag in South Kashmir’s Anantnag.
Mir emphasized that the campaign, which runs from September 15 to October 15, aims to raise awareness about electoral rights and combat the so-called “theft of votes orchestrated through collusion” between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the BJP. He stressed the importance of public engagement in this effort to protect democracy.
In an impassioned address, Mir stated that approximately 65 lakh votes have already been deleted in Bihar, labeling this situation as a “murder of democracy.” He conveyed that citizens across the country have begun to understand the ramifications of these electoral malpractices.
“We aim for 5 crore signatures to present our petition to the President. Our initiative not only emphasizes the significance of voting but also fosters awareness about the protection of electoral rights — a significant step since India’s Independence,” Mir articulated.
Mir’s allegations extended beyond Bihar, claiming that in several regions, various manipulations occurred where votes were deleted or added. Furthermore, he pointed out that many voters face obstacles in reaching polling booths.
“Vote Chori is a crime, a grave stain on democracy, and a direct assault on the electoral rights of our citizens,” he insisted. Mir showcased that the Congress Party has long been committed to exposing systemic issues, including the deletion of legitimate voters and the registration of false votes, evidenced in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and now Bihar.
He reiterated the Congress Party’s resolve under leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to resist the alleged ‘ECI-BJP nexus’ and to advocate for the safeguarding of voter identity and electoral rights.
“Today marks a powerful beginning for our Signature Campaign against ‘Vote Chori’ in Doru Constituency, Anantnag! Numerous dedicated workers from my own polling booth joined this effort. Every signature is vital! We will not allow our voices to be silenced,” Mir communicated through social media channels.
In solidarity with the carder, MLA Nizam Ud Din Bhat addressed the audience, characterizing this campaign as an “indigenous people’s movement” spearheaded by Rahul Gandhi to defend democracy and the rights of voters. This collective effort represents a significant moment for the Congress as it strives to mobilize support against perceived injustices related to voting and participation in the democratic process.
