New Delhi, December 15, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has publicly distanced his party, the National Conference, and potentially the broader INDIA bloc, from the Congress party's aggressive campaign alleging widespread "vote chori" (vote theft) in recent elections. This divergence comes in the wake of a massive "Vote Chor Gaddi Chhod" (Vote Thief, Leave the Seat) rally organized by the Congress in Delhi, where senior leaders vehemently attacked the BJP and questioned the integrity of the Election Commission.
Abdullah's statement marks a significant departure from the unified front the INDIA bloc has attempted to project. While acknowledging each party's right to pursue its own agenda, he explicitly stated, "The INDIA bloc has got nothing to do with it". He further added that the Congress has made 'vote chori' and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls its main issues, and he questioned the right of others to interfere with their strategy.
The Congress party has been vocal in its criticism of the Election Commission (EC), accusing it of bias and collusion with the ruling BJP. Rahul Gandhi has spearheaded this offensive, alleging manipulation of voter rolls and turning a blind eye to irregularities. The party claims to have gathered around six crore signatures in protest against alleged "vote theft," which they intend to submit to the President of India. Gandhi has also accused specific Election Commissioners of "working for the BJP".
Abdullah's stance, however, throws a wrench into this narrative. While he has previously emphasized the importance of the Election Commission maintaining independence and fairness, his recent comments suggest a reluctance to endorse the Congress's outright accusations of electoral malfeasance. This reluctance may stem from a difference in opinion regarding the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). In the past, Abdullah has stated that one cannot blame EVMs for election losses if the same machines are accepted when victories occur.
The INDIA bloc's constituents have presented a united front on major issues, but beneath the surface lie differing perspectives and priorities. Some parties may view the "vote chori" narrative as a potent rallying cry, while others might be wary of undermining the credibility of the electoral process without concrete evidence.
This public divergence raises questions about the INDIA bloc's cohesiveness and its ability to present a united challenge to the BJP in future elections. With upcoming elections in several states, including Assam, Kerala, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, the bloc's ability to reconcile these internal differences will be crucial. Abdullah's remarks serve as a reminder that the INDIA bloc is a coalition of diverse interests, and maintaining unity will require careful navigation of differing viewpoints.
