Congress MP Shashi Tharoor hit out at the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday for attacking Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his poll-rigging claims, saying instead of providing answers, the poll panel is insisting on formalities like an oath and an affidavit.

Participating in a protest march taken out by Opposition MPs against the revision of the electoral rolls in Bihar and alleged “vote chori (theft)”, Tharoor said “what we want is answers, not attacks”.

“The Election Commission was asked a number of very serious questions by Rahul Gandhi. Those serious questions deserve serious answers. The Election Commission, instead of providing answers, is insisting on formalities like an oath,” he told PTI.

“I honestly do not think there is any reason for it… They do not have to insist on it. Secondly, the data that Rahulji is citing is Election Commission data, the EC can look at its own data,” the former Union minister said.

“Seems to me that instead of getting stuck on formalities, they should address the serious doubts that have been raised in people’s mind because the integrity of the electoral system is credible, essential and vital for our own democracy. It is too precious for us to tamper with,” Tharoor said.