📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Max Desfor
Politics
Congress AICC General Secretary accuses BJP of voter bundling and suppression
✍️ The Goan
🗓 02 Oct 2026, 04:02 PM
👁 13
The All India Congress Committee’s general secretary publicly charged the BJP with practising ‘votebandi’ and suppressing voters ahead of upcoming elections.
The All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary launched a sharp criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the ruling party is engaged in "votebandi" – the practice of bundling votes with material incentives – and is actively suppressing eligible voters. The remarks were made during a press briefing held today, where the Congress leader highlighted concerns over the integrity of the upcoming electoral process.
According to the AICC official, "votebandi" involves offering cash, gifts or other benefits to voters in exchange for their support, a tactic that undermines free and fair elections. The accusation also extends to alleged intimidation and obstruction of voters, especially in areas where the BJP enjoys a strong foothold.
The Congress spokesperson said that such tactics, if proven, would violate the Election Commission’s guidelines and could lead to legal action. No immediate response was recorded from the BJP, and party officials have not issued a statement on the allegations at the time of reporting.
The statements come as India prepares for a series of state and national elections later this year, with both major parties intensifying their campaigns. Election watchdogs have previously warned against vote‑buying and voter suppression, urging political parties to adhere strictly to democratic norms.
According to the AICC official, "votebandi" involves offering cash, gifts or other benefits to voters in exchange for their support, a tactic that undermines free and fair elections. The accusation also extends to alleged intimidation and obstruction of voters, especially in areas where the BJP enjoys a strong foothold.
The Congress spokesperson said that such tactics, if proven, would violate the Election Commission’s guidelines and could lead to legal action. No immediate response was recorded from the BJP, and party officials have not issued a statement on the allegations at the time of reporting.
The statements come as India prepares for a series of state and national elections later this year, with both major parties intensifying their campaigns. Election watchdogs have previously warned against vote‑buying and voter suppression, urging political parties to adhere strictly to democratic norms.