It is the use of Electronic Voting Machines in electoral processes that has yet again opened the gates of debate in India’s political discourse. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has called for a mass movement à la Bharat Jodo Yatra to revive ballot papers in the electoral process. Allegations, especially after the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance’s thumping victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections, have brought the issue to sharp focus.
Kharge, while speaking at a function organized by the Congress in the Talkatora Stadium in Delhi to commemorate the Constitution Day, went on to openly criticize the use of EVMs. “We don’t want EVMs, we want ballot paper,” he declared with emphasis. His was a reflection of the opposition’s skepticism about the transparency and credibility of EVMs.
He argued that there was a need for a mass movement to raise the voice of the demand to go back to the paper ballot system in the entire nation. Quoting the party’s Bharat Jodo Yatra, Kharge further pushed on that it demands collective actions for public concern regarding electoral integrity issues.
Maharashtra Elections: Allegations of EVM Tampering
EVM controversy had gained momentum when BJP-led Mahayuti alliance of the state had bagged a record-breaking 230 seats out of 288 in the Maharashtra assembly elections. The opposition parties, along with Congress, alleged that EVMs had been tampered for BJP’s victory.
Karnataka home minister and Congress’ Maharashtra observer, G Parameshwara, alleged “selective EVM hacking”. He said manipulations are done selectively so that no one can question it. He also claimed that manipulation was limited to targeted constituencies so that people could not raise widespread suspicion. “Manipulations are done selectively so that no one can question it,” he claimed.
The matter did not only concern the opposition in Maharashtra. This is what Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole had to say: “Public sentiment says that we vote for X, but it gets marked for Y. No one is listening.” He expressed frustration over inaction on the issue, despite raising it in various forums, including the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court has recently dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a return to paper ballots. The bench of justices Vikram Nath and PB Varale remarked, “When you lose, EVMs are tampered with; when you win, EVMs are fine.” This is a natural reflection of judicial skepticism towards claims of EVM manipulation without substantive evidence.
Historical Context: Shift from Ballot Papers to EVMs
India gradually transitioned from paper ballots to EVMs during the late 1990s onward. Finding it cost-effective, that results would take less time to tally, and the invalid vote problem is completely avoided. While advantages had been lined up, opposition parties do not stop nagging, and are allegedly accused the ruling camp of tampering, whenever results refuse their political wish.
Way Ahead: Balancing Technology and Trust
It is not only a problem for democratic systems but also tells how people should gain confidence in electoral processes. While EVMs are making elections more efficient, the same technology has to go with mechanisms that can tackle doubts. Paper trails like Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems are a step in that direction.
FAQs
1. Why is Congress demanding the return of ballot papers?
Congress leaders, starting with Mallikarjun Kharge, believe that there is an inbuilt tendency to the EVMs to be tampered with, which ensures that elections are marred by integrity. According to them, the reversion to ballot papers will re-establish public confidence in the voting process.
2. What allegations of EVM hacking have been made regarding Maharashtra?
The Congress alleged that after the BJP-led alliance won Maharashtra. EVMs had been selectively hacked in favor of the outcome of the ruling party.
3. What did the SC say about returning ballot papers?
The Supreme Court rejected a PIL to reintroduce the use of ballot papers. Dismissed without any evidence the claims of EVM tampering. It only said that allegations arise often at the time of loss of elections.
4. Are EVMs completely tamper-proof?
While EVMs are designed with many security features and not being connected to the rest of the external networks, the misuse of these machines remains a concern. Measures like VVPATs will address these doubts.
5. What are the advantages of EVMs over ballot papers?
EVMs are economical, save time in counting, no invalid votes, and simplification of the voting process. Public trust remains to be a challenge for using such devices.
Be First to Comment