Public reaction to Rahul Gandhi’s ‘vote chori’ allegation a mixed bag

On 18 August, the latest *Weekly Vibe* survey by Vote Vibe sheds light on the public’s reaction to Rahul Gandhi’s (Indian National Congress) explosive allegations of ‘vote chori’ (vote theft) against the Election Commission of India (ECI). Conducted by AT VoteVibe LLP, this comprehensive poll explores the impact of these claims on India’s democratic fabric.

With 48% of respondents viewing the allegations as serious and warranting investigation, the survey highlights a nation grappling with trust and accountability. Read on to uncover the key findings and their implications.

Public takes vote fraud allegations seriously

Nearly half (48%) of the respondents believe Rahul Gandhi’s ‘vote chori’ accusations against the ECI are serious and should be probed, compared to just 27% who deem them baseless.

Age-based patterns reveal a stark divide: 60% of those aged 60+ consider the allegations serious, while younger voters (18-23) are more sceptical at 45%. This generational gap suggests older citizens are more concerned about electoral integrity.

Split opinions on ECI rigging claims

The survey shows a polarised view on Gandhi’s claim that the ECI rigs polls to favour the BJP. While 46% disagree, 37% agree, indicating a significant minority harbours doubts. 

A gender gap emerges, with men (39%) slightly more likely to support rigging allegations than women (32%).

Age-wise, the 46-60 age group shows the highest disagreement (60%), reflecting varied trust levels across demographics.

Moderate trust in electoral process

Trust in the ECI and India’s electoral process stands at a moderate 47% for combined ‘very high’ and ‘high’ ratings, with 23% rating it ‘low’ or ‘very low’. The net trust level, factoring in all responses, is 54%.

Younger voters (18-23) show the highest ‘very high’ trust at 29%, while older groups (60+) lean towards ‘average’ at 34%, signalling a complex trust landscape.

Public supports ECI’s affidavit demand

A strong 45% of respondents support the ECI’s demand for an affidavit from Gandhi to substantiate his Mahadevapura seat allegations, with 62% of the 46-60 age group backing this move.

Only 16% view it as unnecessary, and 28% remain undecided, indicating broad public support for accountability measures.

Mixed ratings for ECI’s communication

The ECI’s response to opposition allegations on the SIR exercise in Bihar and ‘vote chori’ receives an ‘average’ rating from 30% of respondents, the highest category.

However, opinions are divided, with 20% rating it ‘good’ and 16% ‘poor’, while a notable 33% are unsure. This suggests a need for more transparent communication from the ECI.

Polarised nation

The data reveal a deeply divided public. While the ECI enjoys majority support (54% trust levels and 45% backing the affidavit demand), substantial minorities (37% agreeing to rigging and 48% viewing LOP allegations as serious) signal growing concerns. This polarisation underscores the urgency for democratic institutions to address these issues.

The Weekly Vibe survey on 18 August 2025 paints a picture of a nation at a crossroads. Rahul Gandhi’s ‘vote chori’ allegations have sparked a debate that transcends age and gender, challenging the ECI’s credibility. With trust levels moderate and opinions split, the call for transparency and investigation grows louder. Stay informed with Vote Vibe’s ongoing insights here.