BJP allies close ranks, flay opposition for ‘undermining democracy’

NEW DELHI: BJP’s allies on Saturday closed ranks to hit out at opposition, with TDP chief and Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu saying EC’s statement reaffirmed “the integrity and credibility of our constitutional institutions” and ended “misconceptions” around it. “Attempts to undermine global confidence in India’s democratic framework for short-term political gains are deeply unfortunate,” he said, urging opposition to accept wins and losses with grace.LJP (Ram Vilas)’s Chirag Paswan said opposition is spreading confusion and questioned why it keeps silent on states where it has formed govt.JDU member Sanjay Jha said rising frustration over poll defeats have led opposition to spread propaganda to undermine the democracy.Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde said Congress keeps mum when it wins but attacks EC when it loses. The united stand came a day after some allies had pressed EC to clarify concerns raised in media reports.