In a recent analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), significant discrepancies have been identified between the number of votes polled and counted in 538 constituencies during the Lok Sabha elections. ADR’s findings reveal a shortfall of 5,54,598 votes in 362 constituencies, while 35,093 excess votes were counted in 176 constituencies. These anomalies have sparked concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the transparency of the Election Commission of India (ECI).The ADR’s report, presented at a press conference, highlights several troubling issues. Founder Jagdeep Chokkar emphasized the delay in releasing final voter turnout data and the lack of disaggregated figures by constituency and polling station. These delays and omissions have raised public suspicion regarding the accuracy of the election results. Despite the gravity of these findings, the ECI has yet to provide a satisfactory explanation or address the discrepancies in the vote counts. One of the critical points raised by ADR is the ECI’s failure to release authentic and final data before declaring election results. The mismatch between Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) votes polled and counted, unexplained increases in voter turnout, and the non-disclosure of exact vote numbers undermine the credibility of the election process. Furthermore, the ECI’s clean-up of certain data from its website has only added to the electorate’s apprehensions. Chokkar’s concerns extend beyond data discrepancies. He pointed out the ECI’s inability to address and rectify violations, illegalities, and irregularities observed during the 2019 and 2024 Lok Sabha elections. These unresolved issues continue to cast a shadow over the democratic process, necessitating urgent and transparent actions from the ECI to restore public confidence. Independent journalist Poonam Aggarwal corroborated ADR’s findings, noting similar discrepancies during her analysis of the vote data. She highlighted that while the voter turnout app displayed exact numbers for the first six phases of the 17th General Elections, only percentage figures were provided in the final phase, with previous data removed by the ECI.ADR’s research team identified serious discrepancies in 347 out of 542 constituencies, with discrepancies ranging from one vote to over 101,000 votes. Alarmingly, in six constituencies, the vote discrepancy exceeded the winning margin. The total volume of these discrepancies amounted to 739,104 votes, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the election results. In light of these revelations, it is imperative for the ECI to address these discrepancies transparently and expeditiously. The sanctity of the democratic process depends on the accuracy and integrity of election outcomes. Without swift and comprehensive action, public trust in the electoral system will continue to erode, undermining the very foundation of democracy. The ECI must act decisively to resolve these issues and ensure that future elections are free from such significant anomalies. To restore public confidence, the Supreme Court should mandate the ECI to provide a detailed and transparent explanation of the discrepancies. Furthermore, new rules must be framed to eliminate any vagueness and ensure clarity in the electoral process. This includes timely and transparent release of voter turnout data, accurate reporting of vote counts, and stringent verification processes. The Supreme Court’s intervention is necessary to hold the ECI accountable, ensure transparency, and frame new rules to prevent such issues in the future. There is no debate that the ECI needs to be reformed and staffed by individuals of high integrity to safeguard the democratic process for future generations.