Former Judges Rally to Defend India's Election Commission Amid Vote-Theft Claims

A coalition of 42 ex-judges released a strongly worded open letter contesting recent claims of vote theft, noting that no proof has been presented. They portrayed the accusations as part of a sustained campaign aimed at undermining the Election Commission, the judiciary and other constitutional institutions. The judges warned that labeling these bodies as "thieves" or "compromised" could weaken public trust in the democratic system.

Their appeal follows protests targeting Gyanesh Kumar, who is associated with the alleged smear effort. By publicly defending the electoral process, the former judges aim to restore confidence in India's voting mechanisms. The letter underscores the broader concern that political attacks on institutions may have lasting repercussions for democratic stability.