Dadra Nagar Haveli Elections Spark Controversy: Congress Alleges Massive Rigging and Administrative Bias

A Congress representative has released a video alleging serious irregularities in the recently held District and Municipal Council elections in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

The statement accuses the BJP and the administration led by Praful Patel of orchestrating a systematic election rigging plan, including mass rejection of nomination forms filed by Congress candidates. The party calls for accountability, legal action, and a re-election under Election Commission supervision.

Allegations of Electoral Manipulation

The Congress Party has leveled grave allegations against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the local administration in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. According to the claims, the elections were marred by deliberate manipulation aimed at ensuring a BJP victory.

The Congress asserts that out of 21 nomination forms filed for the District Council, 13 were rejected without valid reasons, while in the Municipal Council elections, a similar pattern of rejection and obstruction was witnessed. In contrast, none of the BJP’s nomination forms were reportedly rejected, raising serious questions about the fairness of the process.

Party officials have described the incident as a “planned hijacking of democracy.”

Administrative Misuse and Pressure

The Congress Party has also accused several administrative officers—including the Collector, SDM, and Tehsildar—of colluding with political interests. The video alleges that these officials acted under instructions from Administrator Praful Patel, and used intimidation tactics against opposition candidates and supporters.

It is further claimed that some candidates were threatened with arrest and coerced into withdrawing their nominations. The Congress termed these acts as examples of “administrative terrorism” and misuse of government machinery for political gains.

Congress Party’s Response and Actions

Despite the challenges, Congress leaders expressed determination to continue their democratic fight. They announced that five candidates who withdrew their nominations under pressure have been expelled from the party for violating its principles.

The party’s leadership has vowed to take the matter to the High Court and the Election Commission of India, demanding justice for the disqualified candidates and accountability from the involved officials.

Congress representatives emphasized that their goal is not only to secure a re-election but also to safeguard the democratic rights of every voter in India.

Political Context and National Relevance

The controversy comes amid growing national debates about electoral transparency and administrative independence. The Congress Party linked this incident to a broader issue of declining democratic values across the country.

The video references Rahul Gandhi’s nationwide campaign highlighting instances of alleged vote manipulation and suppression of opposition voices, portraying the Dadra and Nagar Haveli case as part of a wider pattern threatening democratic integrity.

Demands for Transparency and Reforms

In its official statement, the Congress demanded:

• Suspension or removal of officials involved in the alleged malpractice.

• A transparent re-election supervised directly by the Election Commission.

• Public release of the election observer’s report, which remains undisclosed.

Party leaders argue that free and fair elections are the foundation of Indian democracy, and any manipulation of this process is a direct attack on constitutional values.

Core Issues Highlighted

• Election Rigging: Alleged premeditated rejection of opposition candidates’ nomination forms.

• Administrative Bias: Accusations of collusion by district officials under political influence.

• Legal Challenge: Congress preparing to move the High Court and Election Commission.

• Democratic Integrity: Concerns over transparency and fairness in local governance.

The allegations surrounding the Dadra and Nagar Haveli elections have sparked a significant political storm. With Congress accusing the BJP and the local administration of hijacking the democratic process, the issue has now moved beyond local politics

raising questions about the integrity of electoral systems across India. The demand for transparency and accountability continues to grow, as citizens and political observers watch closely how the Election Commission responds.