Dent in democracy?

The recently concluded Maharashtra Assembly elections have sparked a heated debate.

The Indian National Congress has raised serious allegations about the electoral process. It has claimed that voters were arbitrarily deleted from rolls, over 10,000 names were added in each constituency, and there was an inexplicable surge in voter turnout after polling officially ended. These are grave accusations, indeed, and bring the ECI's credibility under question. The ECI, however, has dispelled these allegations, insisting that the process was transparent and fair. Irrespective of merit, the INC's grievances have struck a chord. Beyond political circles, even citizens have come to doubt the sanctity of elections. For a democracy as large and diverse as India, even the faintest suspicion of manipulation can have far-reaching consequences. Public trust in electoral integrity is critical. Any dent in this trust risks weakening the democratic fabric. It is incumbent on the part of the ECI to clear the air around these allegations with utmost clarity possible.