CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M.K. Stalin on Saturday issued a sharp critique of the Election Commission of India (ECI) following the declaration of the Bihar Assembly election results, asserting that the victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) does not “whitewash the misdeeds and reckless actions” of the poll panel.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

The DMK leader also extended congratulations to both the winning and losing sides, while using the opportunity to underscore what he perceives as a crisis of confidence in the nation’s electoral machinery.

ECI’s Reputation at Its “Lowest Point”

 

In a statement posted on his official social media platform, X, Mr. Stalin strongly criticized the ECI, arguing that the institution’s credibility has suffered significantly in recent times.

“The reputation of the ECI is at its lowest point,” Mr. Stalin stated. He stressed the importance of institutional integrity in a democracy, adding, “The citizens of this country deserve a stronger and more impartial Election Commission, whose conduct of polls should inspire confidence even among those who do not win.”

His comments add to the growing chorus of criticism from opposition parties, including members of the INDIA bloc, who have questioned the fairness and transparency of the electoral process in several recent polls.

Congratulations to Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav

 

Despite his criticism of the election management, the Chief Minister offered his congratulations to the victorious alliance and praised the opposition effort.

“I congratulate veteran leader Thiru. Nitish Kumar for his decisive victory and wish him well in fulfilling the expectations of the people of Bihar,” he wrote.

Mr. Stalin also lauded the campaign efforts of the opposition Mahagathbandhan, particularly its young leader. He added, “I also appreciate young leader Thiru. Tejashwi Yadav for his tireless and spirited campaign.”

Lessons for the INDIA Bloc

 

Reflecting on the comprehensive victory secured by the NDA, which secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member assembly, Mr. Stalin noted that the Bihar verdict holds lessons for the opposition alliance.

He outlined the factors that typically determine electoral outcomes:

• Welfare delivery

• Social and ideological coalitions

• Clear political messaging

• Dedicated management until the last vote is polled

“The leaders of the INDIA bloc are seasoned politicians capable of reading the message and planning strategically to address emerging challenges,” the DMK chief concluded, signaling that the coalition would analyze the results to chart its course ahead of upcoming state elections.

Earlier Clash with PM Modi

 

Mr. Stalin had previously entered the Bihar election narrative when he strongly condemned remarks reportedly made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Bihar campaign. The Prime Minister was alleged to have made statements “inciting enmity between Tamils and the people of Bihar.”

At the time, Mr. Stalin had urged PM Modi not to forget the dignity of his position and to refrain from engaging in “cheap political acts” that foster hatred between different groups in a diverse country.