Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has publicly backed Rahul Gandhi’s “Vote Chori” march. The INDIA bloc planned to lead it to the Supreme Court in Delhi on October 12. Here is what the march is about and why Tharoor’s support is drawing attention.
What Did Shashi Tharoor Say?
In a video posted on X, Tharoor said “maligned forces are trying to steal that right to vote” from citizens. He also claimed that 130 million Indians have been removed from the electoral rolls. He accused the Election Commission of ignoring rules and demanded that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) be suspended and that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar resign. These figures and charges are Tharoor’s own claims, not independently verified findings.
What Is the “Vote Chori” Campaign?
“Vote chori” means “vote theft.” Rahul Gandhi and opposition parties use the phrase to allege that the voter-list revision is deleting genuine voters and helping the ruling party. SIR is an Election Commission exercise to update electoral rolls. The opposition wants it halted, and the Commission and the BJP reject the allegations.
Why Does Tharoor’s Support Stand Out?
Reports in recent months pointed to strains between Tharoor and the Congress leadership. He had also missed an earlier Congress rally on the same theme. His video now signals clear alignment with the party’s current campaign, which is why it was widely noticed.
Security, the CJI and the Government’s Response
Delhi saw heavy security, with barricades and restricted entry and exit at several central metro stations until 4 PM. Chief Justice Surya Kant declined a meeting with the delegation. He said the matter is already before the court and a petition should be filed. Congress said it respects that decision but would still march. On the other side, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused Congress of blaming EVMs whenever it loses.
What Happens Next?
Watch for how the march unfolds, whether a petition reaches the Supreme Court, and whether the Election Commission responds. Whatever your politics, check that your own name is on the electoral roll through the Election Commission’s official voter portal. That is the simplest way to protect your vote.
