Democracy is often celebrated as the crown jewel of India, but beneath the surface lies a rot that threatens its very foundation: fake votes and electoral manipulation. From suspicious voter rolls to booth capturing and ghost voters, the question of “fair elections” is no longer just about political competition—it’s about survival of genuine democracy itself.
Fake Votes: The Silent Killer of Democracy
Fake votes have haunted Indian elections for decades. Reports of duplicate voter IDs, names of deceased citizens still on rolls, and mass mobilization of fake voters have repeatedly surfaced. Instead of ensuring that every vote reflects the voice of a living, legitimate citizen, the system has allowed manipulation to creep in, giving unfair advantages to certain parties.
In a country where elections decide the fate of 1.4 billion people, even a small percentage of fake votes can flip entire constituencies. It isn’t just fraud—it’s the theft of people’s voice.
The Election Commission: Watchdog or Lapdog?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) was once hailed as one of the most powerful and independent election bodies in the world. Today, critics argue it has become a silent spectator.
From turning a blind eye to blatant violations of the model code of conduct, to weak action against hate speeches, the ECI appears toothless. Its reluctance to question those in power has raised eyebrows, especially when the ruling party benefits from its inaction.
Many now ask: Is the Election Commission still the guardian of democracy, or just another institution bowing before political pressure?
The Crocodile Politics of Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, often portrayed as a strongman, has mastered the art of political theatrics. His critics describe him as a “crocodile politician”—appearing emotional in public, shedding symbolic tears, but ruthlessly devouring the opposition behind the scenes.
From using religion as a vote bank to centralizing media narratives, Modi’s brand of politics thrives on spectacle rather than substance. While his speeches attack the opposition, the real issues—fake votes, unemployment, farmers’ struggles, inflation—are brushed under the carpet.
The crocodile sheds tears for democracy while silently swimming in the murky waters of electoral manipulation.
The Way Forward
If India’s democracy is to survive, urgent reforms are needed:
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Cleaning up voter rolls with strict audits.
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Stronger use of technology with transparency, not secrecy.
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An independent, fearless Election Commission that can take action against any party, no matter how powerful.
India doesn’t need crocodile tears; it needs accountability. The people deserve not just to vote, but to believe that their vote truly counts
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