Congress leaders have raised concerns about EVM tampering in Haryana, citing results from machines with varying battery strength. However, sources from the Election Commission have rejected these claims, stating that alkaline batteries used in EVMs have the property of regaining voltage when switched off, which explains the discrepancies in battery percentages. The EC further clarified that initial battery strength is determined on the day of commissioning in the presence of candidates, and the control unit remains functional as long as the battery has more than 5.8 volts, similar to a vehicle running on reserve fuel.
Electronic Voting Machines: Concerns and Clarifications
Background
Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) have been used in India since 2000 to facilitate free and fair elections. They are designed to improve efficiency, reduce fraud, and enhance voter confidence. However, the use of EVMs has also sparked controversies regarding their reliability and susceptibility to tampering.
Current Concerns
In recent elections held in Haryana, Congress leaders expressed concerns about possible EVM tampering. They cited reports of discrepancies in battery strength among EVMs, suggesting that some machines may have been tampered with.
Election Commission's Response
The Election Commission (EC) has dismissed these claims, stating that the alkaline batteries used in EVMs have a unique property. When switched off, these batteries regain voltage, which explains the variations in battery percentages observed. The EC further clarified that:
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Can EVMs be tampered with?
According to the EC, EVMs are tamper-proof and have multiple layers of security features. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the possibility of tampering with the software or firmware of the machines.
2. How are EVMs tested for accuracy?
EVMs undergo rigorous testing and certification processes before being deployed for elections. This includes mock polls, paper ballot trails, and random selection of machines for verification.
3. What are the advantages of EVMs?
EVMs reduce election time, eliminate manual errors, and provide quick counting of votes. They also improve voter convenience and have a deterring effect on booth capturing.
4. What are the concerns with EVMs?
Concerns have been raised about the lack of paper trails, the possibility of software vulnerabilities, and the potential for human error in handling the machines.
5. What measures are taken to ensure the integrity of EVMs?
The EC employs various measures to ensure the integrity of EVMs, including sealing of machines, security protocols, and independent verification of results. The machines are stored under tight security and access is restricted to authorized personnel only.
Conclusion
The issue of EVM reliability remains a topic of debate. While the EC maintains that EVMs are secure and tamper-proof, concerns about their vulnerability continue to persist. It is crucial for the EC to address these concerns transparently and take all necessary steps to enhance voter confidence in the electoral process.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has taken aim at US President Joe Biden for awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom to philanthropist George Soros, calling it a "travesty." This comes after Soros' son accepted the award on his behalf, with Alex Soros stating that his father's legacy is one of fighting for freedom and human rights. The move has sparked criticism from MAGA supporters and Republican leaders, who view it as a "slap in the face" to America.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk made headlines for openly condemning President Joe Biden's decision to give billionaire philanthropist George Soros the highly prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. Musk expressed his disapproval on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, and called Biden's decision a "travesty." Biden announced the list of 19 honorees for this year, citing Soros' focus on global initiatives for democracy, human rights, education, and social justice as the reason for his selection. However, Musk's public criticism has sparked debate and raised questions about the controversial awardee.
The murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar in Chhattisgarh has led to the arrest of three suspects, including key accused Ritesh Chandrakar, who is a relative of Congress leader Suresh Chandrakar. Investigations have also revealed that the victim and the accused were cousins. Chandrakar's murder has drawn attention to an alleged corruption expose, which allegedly led to his death. In light of these developments, the state has launched an inquiry and seized illegally possessed land from the Congress leader's family.
The Bharatiya Janata Party has released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, including big names such as former MP Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma and MLA Kailash Gahlot. The list also features candidates from different backgrounds, such as former Congress MLA Rajkumar Chauhan and former Delhi University Students Union president Rekha Gupta. With this bold move, the BJP aims to secure a strong position in the upcoming elections.
Amidst the highly anticipated Delhi assembly elections, all eyes are on the Kalkaji constituency as Chief Minister Atishi of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party, former MP Ramesh Bidhuri of the Bharatiya Janata Party, and senior leader Alka Lamba of the Congress all vie for the seat. With a history of multiple party wins and changing loyalties, the race for Kalkaji is bound to be an intense one. As Atishi, Bidhuri, and Lamba all bring their unique strengths and experiences to the table, the outcome of this election will be crucial for all three parties involved.
The BJP has announced its candidate list for the upcoming Delhi elections, with Parvesh Verma set to contest against incumbent CM Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi seat. In response, Verma has openly challenged Kejriwal and called for accountability for his actions as CM. The BJP has also fielded other notable candidates, including Ramesh Bidhuri in Kalkaji, leading to speculation about the party's confidence in their own candidates.
Parvesh Verma, the BJP candidate for the New Delhi assembly seat, expressed his gratitude to the party leadership for giving him the opportunity. He confidently asserted that the BJP will form the next government in Delhi and promised to address issues such as tax mismanagement and unemployment. Verma also taunted his opponent, incumbent CM Arvind Kejriwal, and challenged him to not run away from the New Delhi seat. Meanwhile, Kejriwal responded to PM Modi's criticisms by highlighting AAP's achievements in education, healthcare, and housing and attacking the BJP's slow progress in these areas.
The BJP has released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, with 29 names announced. Former MP Parvesh Verma will be contesting against AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi seat, while Chief Minister Atishi's opponent will be former MP Ramesh Bidhuri in Kalkaji. Other key candidates include national office-bearers Dushyant Kumar Gautam and Ashish Sood. This announcement comes as the latest development in the highly anticipated elections, with more updates to come.
The third Maharashtra Mandir Nyas Parishad, attended by over 875 temple representatives, passed resolutions including conducting ‘Collective Aarti’ weekly and urging the government to free all temples in Maharashtra from state control. The event was held in Shirdi and was attended by key leaders and advocates of temple preservation. Key demands such as fast-tracking court cases regarding Kashi and Mathura and declaring temple premises as ‘alcohol and meat-free zones’ were also made. The National Organiser of the Mandir Mahasangh, Mr. Sunil Ghanwat, has urged the government to take prompt action on these resolutions.
On the 194th birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule, Nagar Kurnool MLA Dr. Rajesh Reddy emphasized the importance of following her ideals during an event organized by the District Education Department. He lauded the state government's declaration of January 3rd as Women's Teachers' Day and its commitment to realizing Savitribai's vision for social equality. In the presence of District Collector and Education Officer, several women teachers were honored and a student dressed as Savitribai Phule received special recognition.