Senior leader of the Shiv Sena, Sanjay Raut, has demanded a re-election using ballot papers due to alleged irregularities in the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the Maharashtra Assembly polls. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has come to the defense of the opposition party, stating that they should not blame EVMs for their loss. The Sena leader also cited complaints from party workers across the state, suggesting that the results do not add up and there may have been foul play during the counting process. The party has been advocating the use of ballot papers for the past decade and is now demanding that the Election Commission hold fresh elections using this method.
EVMs: A Contentious Issue in Indian Elections
The use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in Indian elections has been a contentious issue, with allegations of irregularities and foul play surfacing periodically. The recent Maharashtra Assembly polls have reignited the debate, with senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut demanding a re-election using ballot papers.
Background
EVMs were first introduced in India in 1998, with the intention of making the electoral process more efficient, accurate, and tamper-proof. However, concerns have been raised about the machines' reliability, transparency, and vulnerability to manipulation.
Allegations of Irregularities
Over the years, numerous allegations of irregularities in EVM usage have been made. These include:
Shiv Sena's Demand for Ballot Papers
In the wake of the Maharashtra Assembly polls, the Shiv Sena has emerged as the most vocal critic of EVMs. Party leaders have alleged widespread irregularities, including the deletion of votes cast in their favor. Sanjay Raut has demanded a re-election using ballot papers, claiming that EVMs cannot guarantee a fair and transparent electoral process.
Support and Opposition
The Sena's demand has received support from other opposition parties, such as the NCP and the Congress. However, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly defended the use of EVMs, stating that they are the most secure and reliable method of voting. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has also maintained that EVMs are tamper-proof and have not been found to be manipulated in any election.
FAQs on EVMs
Q1: How does an EVM work? A: An EVM is a small electronic device that records and counts votes cast by electors. When an elector presses a button on the machine to cast their vote, the machine records the vote electronically and displays the candidate's details on a screen.
Q2: Are EVMs tamper-proof? A: According to the ECI, EVMs are tamper-proof and encrypted to prevent any unauthorized access or manipulation. However, concerns have been raised about the possibility of hacking and other forms of external interference.
Q3: Have there been any instances of EVM malpractice? A: There have been some allegations of EVM malpractice in the past, but no conclusive evidence of widespread tampering has been established. The ECI has maintained that all EVMs undergo rigorous testing and audits to ensure their accuracy and integrity.
Q4: Why do some parties oppose EVMs? A: Some political parties have opposed the use of EVMs, alleging that they are opaque and vulnerable to manipulation. They argue that ballot papers provide greater transparency and allow for manual recounts in case of disputes.
Q5: What is the future of EVMs in India? A: The use of EVMs is likely to continue in India, given their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, the ECI is constantly working to improve the security and transparency of EVMs, and it is possible that further advancements in technology may address some of the concerns raised by critics.
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