Patna, November 9, 2025 – Union Home Minister Amit Shah has strongly refuted allegations of "vote chori" (vote theft) leveled by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during his campaign for the Bihar elections. Addressing a rally, Shah asserted that the government is committed to removing illegal infiltrators from the country and accused Gandhi of undermining the voter verification process, which he claims is designed to eliminate unauthorized voters.
Gandhi, speaking at a separate rally in Kishanganj, Bihar, alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Shah would eventually be "caught for indulging in 'vote chori'". He stated that the INDIA bloc is working to unite the country and would form the government in Bihar if people unite and prevent "vote theft". Gandhi also criticized Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, claiming he is ignoring the need for youth employment in the state.
Shah responded to these accusations by stating that the opposition leader could take out a "yatra" (journey) "from Bihar to Italy," but the central government would remain firm in its stance against illegal immigration. He implied that Gandhi's objections to the voter verification process stem from the removal of illegal voters, suggesting a connection between Gandhi's claims and the government's efforts to identify and deport infiltrators. Shah has accused Rahul Gandhi of attacking the SIR voter verification process because it is designed to remove illegal voters.
The Home Minister asserted that his government would not allow infiltrators to remain, claiming that Rahul's objections to the process stem from the removal of unauthorized voters. He framed the issue as a matter of national security and reiterated the government's commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
The exchange between the two leaders highlights the intensifying political rhetoric surrounding the Bihar elections and the broader debate on immigration and citizenship in India. The accusations of "vote chori" come at a time when the Election Commission is under scrutiny, and the opposition parties are alleging irregularities in the electoral process.
The BJP has consistently emphasized its commitment to identifying and deporting illegal immigrants, particularly from neighboring countries. This stance has resonated with some segments of the population who are concerned about the impact of immigration on resources and demographics.
On the other hand, opposition parties have accused the government of using the issue of immigration to polarize voters and divert attention from other pressing issues such as unemployment and economic slowdown. They argue that the government's policies are discriminatory and target specific communities.
The war of words between Shah and Gandhi is expected to escalate as the Bihar elections draw closer. The outcome of the elections will not only determine the political landscape of the state but also have implications for the national political scene. The issue of immigration and the integrity of the electoral process are likely to remain key themes in the campaign, with both sides seeking to shape the narrative to their advantage.
