New Delhi, Aug. 17 -- The Election Commission of India on Sunday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his "vote chori" remark, giving him a week's time to either furnish proof under affidavit or issue a public apology.

The poll body made it clear that in the absence of evidence, such allegations would be deemed false.

Calling Gandhi's statement an "insult to the Constitution," the Commission said the use of phrases like "vote chori" undermined democratic institutions.

Kumar also accused political parties of using the poll body as a political prop.

He also dismissed claims of double voting, saying while concerns had been raised by some, no evidence was submitted.

The EC's warning came just hours after Rahul Gandhi questioned ...